### Lindsey Vonn Unretires at 40: A New Chapter for a Skiing Legend
Olympic and world champion Lindsey Vonn has announced her return to competitive skiing at the age of 40, five years after retiring due to injuries. Vonn, who holds 82 World Cup victories, second only to Mikaela Shiffrin, has undergone a remarkable recovery following a partial knee replacement earlier this year.
The surgery, which she credits for eliminating her chronic pain, has enabled her to train with the Stifel US Ski Team once again. While her ultimate goal is to compete at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Vonn remains cautious, acknowledging that her participation will depend on her progress and fitness over the next two years.
The skiing world has embraced the news of Vonn’s comeback with enthusiasm. Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard, praised Vonn for her unparalleled contributions to alpine skiing and expressed excitement about her return.
Known for her resilience and determination, Vonn’s comeback joins a storied tradition of legendary athletes defying expectations. Her illustrious career includes 20 World Cup titles, three Olympic medals, and eight World Championship medals, cementing her status as one of the greatest athletes in the history of the sport. Whether or not she competes in 2026, her journey to recovery and her renewed presence in the sport promise to inspire a new generation of skiers.