“When I was 17” Olympic legend Lindsey Vonn explains the mindset of a winner

In a recent interview with BBC special correspondent Katty Kay, Olympic downhill skiing legend Lindsey Vonn shared insights into the mindset that drove her to victory and the challenges she faces post-retirement. Reflecting on her first Olympic experience at 17 during the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Vonn described the event as a profoundly emotional moment for both her and her country, coming shortly after 9/11.

Despite achieving numerous world championships before, it was her gold medal win in Vancouver in 2010 that truly solidified her fame and significance, transforming her into a celebrated icon in American sports.

Vonn, who retired in 2019 as the most decorated female skier, spoke candidly about the adrenaline rush she misses and the difficulties of adjusting to life without competitive skiing. She emphasized that while physical preparation is a challenge, the mental pressure athletes face is even more formidable.

Vonn’s journey underscores the importance of managing this pressure, especially in the age of social media, and highlights the ongoing struggle to find fulfillment and excitement beyond the slopes. Her story, shared in her memoir Rise and her recent conversation with Kay, illustrates the complex interplay between athletic success, mental resilience, and the pursuit of personal passion.