Skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has shared a hopeful update from her hospital bed after a frightening crash at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. In an emotional social media post, the champion revealed that she has already undergone another procedure and is focused on healing.
“I had my third surgery today and it was successful,” Vonn wrote on Instagram. “Success means something very different now than it did just a few days ago. The progress is slow, but I know I’ll be okay.”
Crash Ends Olympic Run Early
The 41-year-old alpine legend was competing in the women’s downhill event when her Olympic appearance came to a sudden halt. Less than 15 seconds into her run, Vonn clipped a gate and lost control, crashing hard onto the course. She could be heard crying out in pain before medical teams airlifted her from the mountain.
In the images she shared online, Vonn’s left leg is secured in an external fixator — a stabilizing frame commonly used to support severe injuries and reduce swelling during recovery.
Remarkably, Vonn had entered the Olympics while already dealing with a torn ACL suffered during a World Cup race in late January.
Gratitude Amid Recovery
Despite the setback, Vonn expressed deep appreciation for the care and encouragement she has received.
“Thank you to the incredible medical staff, my friends and family, and everyone around the world who has sent love and support,” she wrote. “And congratulations to my teammates and all the Team USA athletes who are inspiring me and giving me something to cheer for.”
Her message reflected both resilience and the strong support system surrounding her during another difficult chapter.
A Career Marked by Triumph — and Tough Injuries
Vonn remains one of the most accomplished athletes in alpine skiing history. Her 84 World Cup victories rank second all-time behind fellow American Mikaela Shiffrin. She has also earned three Olympic medals, including a gold.
However, injuries have repeatedly tested her career.
Over the years, Vonn has endured multiple major setbacks, including:
A torn ACL and MCL and a fractured leg at the 2013 World Championships
A re-injured ACL later that year, forcing her to miss the 2014 Olympics
A broken ankle in 2015 and additional knee fractures in 2016
A torn LCL and multiple leg fractures in 2018
After announcing her retirement in 2019, Vonn continued to battle knee issues. In April 2024, she underwent knee replacement surgery but later surprised fans by announcing a comeback to competition.
Questions About Her Future
Following her latest injury, Vonn’s father, Alan Kildow, suggested that this could mark the end of her racing career.
“She’s 41 years old, and this is the end of her career,” he told The Associated Press. “There will be no more ski races for Lindsey Vonn as long as I have anything to say about it.”
For now, Vonn’s focus remains on recovery. Through her hospital update and determination to heal, the Olympic champion once again demonstrated the resilience that has defined her remarkable journey — even as questions about her competitive future continue.
