Lindsey Vonn, one of the most decorated alpine skiers in U.S. history, proved that age is just a number by securing second place at the Sun Valley Super-G on March 23, 2025. This remarkable achievement marked her first podium finish since returning from retirement in November 2024 and made her the oldest alpine skier to finish on the World Cup podium at the age of 40.
The event showcased Vonn's resilience and passion for skiing, as she silenced critics who claimed she was too old to compete at the highest level. "There's a lot of people saying that I can't and that I am too old," Vonn stated. "I think I proved everyone wrong." Her comeback story is not just about personal triumph; it serves as an inspiration for athletes who may believe their competitive days are behind them.
Vonn's journey back to competitive skiing began after she initially retired in 2019 due to knee injuries. Since then, she has undergone multiple surgeries, but her determination to return to the sport she loves remained unwavering. Her recent performance at Sun Valley was particularly poignant, as she dedicated her win to her late mother, saying, "I knew my Mom was with me. I knew it was my time to risk it all in front of so many American fans, including my father and brother." This emotional connection to her family adds a deeply personal layer to her comeback.
During the Sun Valley Super-G, Vonn finished just behind Lara Gut-Behrami, who took first place, while Federica Brignone rounded out the podium in third. Vonn's achievement comes only four months after her return to competitive skiing, a feat that many thought was improbable. Her friend and fellow competitor, Sofia Goggia, who finished third overall in the World Cup standings despite a 19th-place finish on the same day, congratulated her on Instagram. Goggia wrote, "Yesterday was a special day; we all witnessed something great—a comeback that many did not believe was possible anymore, a return that very few truly believed in."
The bond between Vonn and Goggia runs deep, with Goggia previously expressing her desire for Vonn to become her coach one day. In a December 2022 interview, she said, "I would welcome her with open arms because she’s a woman that has completed her own journey and has a full understanding about everything so she could help a lot." Their mutual respect and admiration highlight the close-knit community within alpine skiing.
Vonn's childhood coach, Erich Sailer, who is now 99 years old, remains one of her biggest supporters. He recognized Vonn's exceptional talent early on, noting her extraordinary dedication as a young athlete. "She was the first one on the lift, and the last one down," Sailer recalled, emphasizing her commitment to the sport. Despite his own health struggles, Sailer remains optimistic about Vonn's future. "It's very hard, but I have to be tough. Then you think about people like Lindsey, who went on, turned around, and did it again and succeeded. I hope she succeeds once more," he said.
As Vonn prepares for another shot at the Winter Olympics in 2026, she is focused on making a significant impact in Milan. Her recent performances have not only showcased her incredible talent but also her ability to inspire others. Vonn has already earned three Olympic medals, four overall World Cup titles, and two gold medals at the World Championships, with a staggering 138 podium finishes across all competitive categories.
Goggia, who has her own impressive record, including a gold medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics and a silver medal at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing, has also faced her share of challenges. She has been open about her struggles with fitness as she prepares for her last Olympic Games in 2026. Despite a mistake that led to her finishing 19th in the Sun Valley Super-G, Goggia's acknowledgment of Vonn's achievement underscores the camaraderie within the sport.
The alpine skiing community is abuzz with excitement as both athletes gear up for the upcoming Olympics. Vonn's return to the podium has reignited interest in her storied career and has set the stage for a thrilling competition in Milan. Fans and fellow athletes alike are eager to see how she will perform on the world stage once again.
In a sport where youth often dominates, Vonn's success at such an advanced age challenges conventional wisdom about athletic longevity. Her journey from the modest slopes of Minnesota to the pinnacle of alpine skiing serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. As she continues to defy expectations, Vonn is not just racing against her competitors; she is racing against time, proving that with dedication and heart, anything is possible.
As the countdown to the Winter Olympics continues, the alpine skiing world is watching closely. Lindsey Vonn's story is far from over, and her impact on the sport will be felt for years to come. With her eyes set on another Olympic run, Vonn is ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead, inspiring a new generation of skiers to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles.
