Lindsey Vonn Tears ACL, Still Plans to Compete in 2026 Olympics
Three-time Olympic medalist Lindsey Vonn has torn her ACL in her knee, just days before the 2026 Winter Olympics are set to begin. The injury happened at the World Cup downhill race on Friday (January 30) in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
“It was painful initially after the crash,” the 41-year-old skier said upon announcing the news. “I had a feeling it was bad, but I held out hope until I saw the MRI in front of me. But I have not cried, I have not deviated from my plan.”
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She indicated she will still compete in the women’s alpine skiing downhill, but it’s unclear if she’ll be able to Super-G event. She’ll compete in the downhill on Sunday (February 8). The Olympics kick off on Friday.
“I know what my chances were before the crash and I know my chances aren’t the same as it stands today,” Lindsey added. “But I know there’s still a chance, and as long as there’s a chance, I will try.”
“I have to see how it feels. If it’s stable and I feel confident, I’ll continue to race. That is my goal, obviously, but I can’t tell you that answer until I actually ski 80 mph and then I’ll tell you,” she said of the Super-G event, set for February 12.
ACL tears are common in sports, and recovery usually takes 6-9 months.