Skiing icon Lindsey Vonn provided an update on her condition via social media after undergoing her third surgical procedure following a serious crash that dashed her hopes of competing in the Winter Olympics at Milan‑Cortina. The 41-year-old American athlete sustained a leg injury during the games, resulting in her being airlifted to a hospital for treatment just a week after suffering an ACL rupture.
Vonn, representing Team USA, crashed into the slope after clipping a gate only 13 seconds into her downhill run at the women’s event. She was promptly attended to before being airlifted to a nearby medical facility for further care.
Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Vonn shared, “I underwent my 3rd surgery today, and it was successful. The meaning of success has significantly evolved for me in these past few days. Progress is being made, albeit slowly, and I am confident that I will recover. Grateful for the exceptional medical team, as well as the unwavering support from my friends, family, and the incredible display of love and encouragement from people worldwide.”
She also extended her congratulations to her fellow Team USA athletes for their achievements, serving as a source of inspiration and motivation during her recovery journey.
It was confirmed that Vonn would require multiple surgeries to address her leg injury, and the recent operation marks the third in the series. While a lengthy recuperation period lies ahead, there is optimism that she may return to skiing within a year.
Federica Brignone, another skier who suffered severe leg fractures and an ACL tear at the 2025 Italian Championships, made a comeback after just 10 months, competing alongside Vonn on Cortina’s Olympia piste.
Andrea Panzeri, the head of the Medical Commission of the Italian Winter Sports Federation, emphasized the complexity of Vonn’s fracture and its potential impact on her career, noting Brignone’s successful recovery from a similar injury.
Orthopedic surgeon Filippo Pierfrancesco Calanna highlighted the challenges of recovery, particularly for older athletes like Vonn, emphasizing the importance of motivation and mindset in the healing process. He also cautioned about the risk of early arthritis development and its potential consequences on joint function and mobility.
Given Vonn’s history of leg injuries and prior knee implant, there may be implications for her recovery timeline.