Renowned ski icon Lindsey Vonn provided an update on her condition on social media post her third surgery following a tragic accident that shattered her hopes for the Olympic Games in Milan‑Cortina. The 41-year-old American endured a leg injury during the Milan Cortina Games, necessitating immediate hospitalization after a severe crash, shortly after tearing her ACL.
Vonn, a key member of Team USA, encountered a mishap when she hit a gate, leading to a loss of balance and a collision with the slope just 13 seconds into her women’s downhill run. Following initial treatment on-site, she was airlifted to a nearby medical facility for further care.
Taking to Instagram on Wednesday evening, Vonn shared, “I underwent my third surgery today, which was successful. The concept of success holds a different significance for me now compared to a few days ago.
“I am progressing, albeit at a gradual pace, but I am confident in my recovery. I am grateful for the exceptional medical team, my supportive friends and family, and the overwhelming love and encouragement from people worldwide.
“Additionally, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to my teammates and all the inspiring Team USA athletes who continue to motivate me and give me reasons to cheer.”
Subsequently confirmed that Vonn would require multiple surgeries to mend her leg, she has now completed her third surgical procedure. A prolonged recovery phase lies ahead, although there remains a possibility that she might make a comeback to skiing within a year.
Fellow skier Federica Brignone, who encountered several leg fractures and an ACL tear at the 2025 Italian Championships in April, returned to competition after a mere 10 months. Brignone competed against Vonn on Cortina’s Olympia piste.
Addressing the situation, Andrea Panzeri, head of the Medical Commission of the Italian Winter Sports Federation, stated to Reuters, “It is challenging to provide a prognosis without reviewing the X‑rays.
“The fracture is complicated and can potentially curtail an athlete’s career, irrespective of age. Nevertheless, Brignone faced a severe fracture and made a recovery.”
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Meanwhile, orthopedic surgeon Filippo Pierfrancesco Calanna from Milan’s Gaetano Pini Orthopedic and Trauma Centre remarked, “It is evident that the older one is, the slower the recuperation