Skiing icon Lindsey Vonn provided an update on her condition post her third surgery following a severe crash at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, shattering her Olympic aspirations. The 41-year-old American skier sustained a leg fracture during the event and was swiftly airlifted to a hospital after a harrowing accident, just days after tearing her ACL.
Vonn, a member of Team USA, collided with a gate, lost control, and tumbled down the slope a mere 13 seconds into her women’s downhill run. Immediate on-site care was given before she was transported by helicopter for further medical attention.
Taking to Instagram recently, Vonn shared, “I underwent a successful third surgery today. The definition of success has evolved significantly for me in the past few days. Progress is being made, albeit slowly, but I am optimistic about my recovery. Grateful for the exceptional medical team, my supportive friends and family, and the overwhelming love and encouragement from people worldwide.
“Additionally, a big shoutout to my teammates and the inspiring Team USA athletes who continue to motivate and uplift me.”
It was later confirmed that Vonn would require multiple surgical interventions to mend her leg, with the expectation of a prolonged rehabilitation period, although a potential return to skiing within a year remains a possibility.
Fellow skier Federica Brignone, who endured several leg fractures and an ACL tear at the 2025 Italian Championships, made a remarkable comeback after just 10 months, competing against Vonn on Cortina’s Olympia piste.
Andrea Panzeri, the head of the Medical Commission of the Italian Winter Sports Federation, mentioned, “Providing a prognosis without seeing the X-rays is challenging. The type of fracture suffered can have long-term consequences on an athlete’s career, irrespective of age. However, Brignone faced a severe fracture and managed to recover.”
Orthopedic surgeon Filippo Pierfrancesco Calanna from Milan’s Gaetano Pini Orthopaedic and Trauma Centre highlighted, “It’s evident that recovery tends to be slower with age, despite Vonn’s exceptional physical attributes. Motivation and mindset play crucial roles in the recovery process.
“There is a possibility of early onset arthritis, leading to joint stiffness and discomfort over time. Vonn’s history of injuries, including a partial knee implant in the same leg, may impact her recovery timeline.”
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