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After a six-year hiatus from competitive ski racing, Lindsey Vonn made her return at the Alpine Ski World Championships in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria, where she placed 15th in the women’s downhill event. Despite the placement, Vonn called it a "practice run for the Olympics," reflecting a positive attitude towards her comeback.
At 40, Vonn faced significant challenges during this race, including battling cold and flu-like symptoms, and previously hanging her arm on a gate during another event. However, the experienced skier was optimistic about her performance, stating, "Of course (at) world championships I always have high expectations of myself. And when everything is working together, I know what I’m capable of." This mindset is crucial as she eyes her ultimate goal: the upcoming Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo in 2026.
Vonn’s decision to return to the slopes has been met with both excitement and skepticism. Many are thrilled to see her race again, while others question the safety of an athlete at her age in such a demanding sport. "There’s always going to be critics, no matter what I do, someone is going to talk negatively about me,” said Vonn. "Honestly, if you don’t have haters then you’re probably not doing that well. So bring it on." This determination is a testament to her resilience and competitive spirit that fans have long admired.
In this championship, Vonn's time was 1.96 seconds behind her teammate, Breezy Johnson, who won the race. Vonn remarked, "It’s good progress. I’m ahead of Sofi Goggia, and I think in Cortina, she’s the No. 1 person to beat there. So it’s not like I’m skiing badly." These words highlight both her competitive nature and awareness of her current standings in the world of ski racing.
With a new ski technician and a fresh outlook, Vonn acknowledges that her equipment and setup still need refinement. “It’s like jumping in a Formula 1 car and having no training,” she said, indicating the adjustments needed in her return to elite competition. She recognizes that while she has the fundamentals, there are still about "middle pieces" to assemble in her training and preparation.
As the countdown to the 2026 Olympics continues, Vonn’s performance in Saalbach can be seen as a good baseline. She intends to use this championship experience as a stepping stone towards her Olympic aspirations, reiterating, "Not in this same position. I’ll tell you that. I hope to be in a much different place in a year. But I did think about that in the starting gate." This foresight and goal-setting will be essential as she refines her technique and mental approach in the months ahead.
The upcoming events will be crucial for Vonn as she gears up for the Olympic Games in a year’s time, where she aims to perform at her best. Maintaining her competitive edge while adapting to the rigors of professional skiing at 40 is a formidable challenge. Yet, with her track record and experience, her fans remain hopeful that Vonn will not only meet their expectations but exceed them come Olympic time.
Stay tuned as Vonn continues her journey back to the top, showcasing her talent, determination, and passion for skiing. Will she reach her goals in time for the Olympics? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Lindsey Vonn will bring everything she has to the slopes as she races towards her Olympic redemption.
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