Lindsey Vonn has broken bones and broken records… now, at 40, the skiing legend is chasing more Olympic glory

Lindsey Vonn, one of the most decorated athletes in skiing history, is making a remarkable return to the slopes at age 40, five years after announcing her retirement. Inspired by the enduring memory of her late mother, Linda Krohn, Vonn is plotting her comeback to the World Cup circuit with an eye on the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

Known for her relentless drive and resilience, Vonn has amassed an impressive record of 82 World Cup victories, three Olympic medals, and numerous other accolades, including being the first American woman to win Olympic downhill gold in 2010. Despite a career punctuated by grueling injuries—including knee surgeries, broken bones, and a near decade of limited mobility—Vonn now feels rejuvenated after a recent knee replacement surgery, which has allowed her to ski pain-free once more.

Vonn’s journey to greatness has been nothing short of extraordinary. Raised in Minnesota, where skiing opportunities were limited, she began racing at just seven years old and quickly outgrew her local slopes, prompting her family to relocate to Colorado. Her path was shaped by her parents’ sacrifices, particularly her mother, who battled her own health challenges yet provided unwavering support.

Vonn’s fierce determination has often been likened to legends like Roger Federer and Michael Phelps. Now, inspired by athletes such as LeBron James, who continues to dominate at 40, Vonn is ready to push her limits once again. As she prepares for this new chapter, Vonn’s legacy as a trailblazer and a symbol of perseverance remains firmly intact, ensuring her place among the greatest figures in sports history.