In Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lindsey Vonn faced the Olympic downhill with courage few could match. At 41, just nine days after tearing her ACL, she took on the course aiming to make history as the oldest alpine skier on the Olympic podium. Early in the run, a clipped gate sent her crashing violently into the snow. Medics stabilized her on-site, and she was airlifted to Ca’ Foncello Hospital.
The hospital later confirmed Vonn had suffered a fractured left leg and underwent successful orthopedic surgery. Recovery will be long and challenging, but she is in stable condition. Team USA Chief Anouk Patty emphasized the severity of the injury while assuring the public that Vonn “will be OK,” highlighting her resilience and dedication to the sport.
Even in the aftermath, Vonn’s competitive spirit shone—cheering for teammates from the helicopter as Breezy Johnson claimed gold on the same treacherous course. Though she didn’t earn a medal, Vonn’s bravery and determination reinforced her legendary status in alpine skiing. Messages of support have poured in worldwide, celebrating not just her achievements, but her unwavering will to push boundaries and inspire others.