Lindsey Vonn’s long-awaited return to competitive skiing came with hopes of a dream partnership. With Vonn back at 40 and Mikaela Shiffrin already cemented as an all-time great, the idea of them teaming up for the newly introduced team combined event at the Alpine Skiing World Championships in Saalbach, Austria, seemed almost poetic. A legendary duo, two greats of American skiing, racing together for gold. But when the moment came, everything unfolded in a way no one quite expected.
Once deemed “broken beyond repair” after years of devastating injuries, Von had stepped away from the sport in 2019. Her body was battered and her career was seemingly over. A partial knee replacement surgery brought her back to a new life in the sport. Having overcome years of persistent pain she now experienced complete relief which made the door of new opportunities open before her. However, the return to competitive skiing brought her no satisfaction despite her courageous attempt. Moreover, she called out USA Skiing, saying the whole situation was blown out of proportion—just more drama!
On February 11, the American ski queen, Mikaela Shiffrin teamed up with her longtime friend Breezy Johnson to win gold in the team combined event. This victory marked Shiffrin’s record-tying 15th world championship medal, while Johnson became a double world champion. For Vonn, though, the moment was bittersweet. “Maybe I didn’t help myself or the team by having my Twitter fingers out. But at the same time, I’m a human being and I was disappointed in the communication. And I let my feelings be known,” she admitted. “I just think it’s a little unprofessional. It’s just a simple phone call or text message,” she added. The lack of communication stung the most. The news about Shiffrin’s decision surfaced through social media platforms, a move that left Vonn frustrated.
Speaking out against the system is always a risk, especially for an athlete hoping for one final shot at the Olympics. But Vonn has never been one to stay silent. She knew this comeback was leading to one final destination—the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina. With her body finally cooperating, she sees a chance to end her career on her terms. “My goal, ultimately, is next year in Cortina,” she stated. It would be her last shot at Olympic glory before she walks away from the sport for good.
Vonn had to face her toughest challenge, an unforeseen disappointing experience at the slopes.
A tough team combined run amidst Lindsey Vonn’s comeback
Lindsey Vonn’s return to the World Championships was anything but triumphant. Partnering with AJ Hurt for the team combined event, she struggled in the downhill, finishing 21st. That left Hurt with an uphill battle in the slalom, but even her best effort couldn’t pull them into contention. The duo placed 16th overall with a time of 2:43.87, far from the podium. For Vonn, it was a harsh reminder of just how unforgiving competition can be. The gap between where she once stood and where she finished now was undeniable. It wasn’t just about the result but a test of whether her body could still withstand the highest level of competition. And in Saalbach, the answer was painfully clear.
The Minnesota native’s return wasn’t just about showing up—it was the result of months of continuous training. She pushed herself through rigorous sessions, determined to reclaim her place among the world’s best. During one intense downhill practice run, she slammed into two boundary flags, sending a jolt of pain through her arms. Later, she shared on Instagram, casually revealing a massive bruise as just another part of the process. “For those of you asking about my arms, when I do this…” she joked, showing the battle scars of her comeback. But beneath the humor was a relentless drive.
With Cortina 2026 on the horizon, the question is, can Vonn defy the odds one last time, or will the mountain she once ruled prove to be too steep in her final chapter? Let us know in the comments about what you think.
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