Lindsey Vonn, the celebrated American alpine skier, has decided not to participate in the World Cup super-G scheduled for Saturday after sustaining a left knee injury during a crash the previous day. Despite this setback, she continues to prepare for the Winter Olympics taking place in Milan Cortina next month, her personal coach confirmed.
Vonn’s coach, Chris Knight, communicated via text that while she would skip the race on Saturday, her training and focus remain directed toward the Olympic Games. "No she is not racing today but preparing for Cortina as usual," Knight stated.
Vonn herself addressed fans through her Instagram account, expressing gratitude for their support amidst this challenge. She wrote, "Unfortunately, I won’t be able to race today. Thank you for all of the love and support I have received. Means the world to me." She further added, "Doing my best right now..." accompanied by praying hands and crossed fingers emojis.
The injury occurred on Friday during the downhill event in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, when Vonn crashed and was caught by safety nets. Though she managed to ski down to the finish area, she required immediate medical attention and was airlifted from the course. Details concerning the exact nature and severity of her knee injury have yet to be confirmed.
In her Instagram statement following the accident, Vonn elaborated, "I crashed today in the downhill race in Switzerland and injured my left knee. I am discussing the situation with my doctors and team and will continue to undergo further exams." At age 41, she remains a key figure expected to draw significant attention at the Winter Games, slated to open next Friday, with her first Olympic competition set for the women's downhill event two days later.
The super-G race on Saturday was intended to be Vonn’s last competitive appearance prior to the Olympics, underscoring the impact of her injury and withdrawal from this critical preparatory event.