Lindsey Vonn, the legendary American alpine skier, recently made headlines with a sharp retort aimed at former Swiss ski racer Sonja Nef. The exchange followed Vonn’s announcement of her comeback to competitive skiing, marking her return to the slopes after a five-year hiatus.
Having retired in 2019 due to a series of injuries and grueling surgeries, Vonn, a three-time Olympic medalist, has undergone a transformative knee-replacement surgery, enabling her to re-enter the sport. Her return, coinciding with the 2024-25 Alpine Skiing World Cup season, also fuels speculation about her participation in the upcoming Winter Olympics.
However, Nef, a former Olympic bronze medalist, criticized Vonn’s decision, suggesting it stemmed from an inability to adapt to life outside the limelight and warning of the physical risks involved.
Vonn, known for her resilience and competitive spirit, dismissed Nef’s critique with a pointed response, stating, “Love it when ladies support ladies.” Acknowledging the challenges of her comeback, Vonn has reflected on her career, balancing moments of triumph with the toll of severe injuries and surgeries.
While she recognizes the risks of returning to high-speed competition, the 40-year-old remains undeterred, citing her passion for skiing and her love for pushing limits. Vonn’s response to Nef underscores her commitment to defying odds, proving once again why she remains one of the most celebrated athletes in skiing history.