Lindsey Vonn to Race Olympic Downhill Despite Torn ACL, Aiming for History at 41
American skiing legend attempts unprecedented comeback in Milano Cortina after rupturing knee ligament just one week ago
The decision caps an already improbable comeback story. Vonn retired in 2019 after years of grueling injuries, seemingly ending one of the most decorated careers in skiing history. But she returned to competition this season with a titanium knee replacement, defying medical expectations and age.
Then came the crash during training last week, tearing the ACL in her other knee. Most athletes would withdraw. Vonn chose to race.
Modern medicine makes this possible in ways it would not have been even a decade ago. With a stable knee brace and years of muscle memory, Vonn can technically navigate the course. But the downhill is the most dangerous event in alpine skiing—speeds exceeding 80 mph, ice-hard surfaces, and terrain that punishes the slightest error.
She has nothing left to prove. With 82 World Cup victories and an Olympic gold already in her trophy case, Vonn could retire tomorrow as a legend. That she is choosing to risk everything one more time speaks to something beyond competitive drive.
Analysis
Why This Matters
Vonn has transcended skiing to become one of the most recognized American athletes globally. Her comeback attempt embodies the Olympics ideal of human determination against physical limits.
Background
Vonn won Olympic gold in downhill at Vancouver 2010 and has battled through countless injuries throughout her career. Her 2019 retirement came after her body could no longer handle the punishment of elite skiing.
Key Perspectives
Medical experts are divided on the wisdom of racing with a torn ACL. Some note the brace provides adequate stability for the descent; others warn of catastrophic risk if she crashes.
What to Watch
The womens Olympic downhill is Sunday. Watch for whether Vonn can maintain her technical precision through the entire course—one mistake could end her career permanently.