Lindsey Vonn’s Ski Alpin Comeback in St. Moritz
After over five years, US skiing star Lindsey Vonn is making her comeback to the World Cup stage in St. Moritz. While she has already given a glimpse of her performance, critics remain skeptical.
Vonn’s Return to the Slopes
Amidst cheers, Lindsey Vonn raised her ski poles high with a broad smile. Although she had not officially made her comeback to the World Cup yet, it felt exactly like that on Saturday. Vonn took to the slopes in Beaver Creek as a forerunner before the downhill race and effortlessly showcased what she is still capable of after over 2,000 days away from competition.
While no official time was measured, reports suggest Vonn clocked in at around 1:33.16 minutes for the notorious “Birds of Prey” course, just 0.80 seconds behind Austrian daily winner Cornelia Hütter. This result would have placed her in the top 10 on that day. “Incredible,” Vonn expressed after the run, “I am really excited to be back and feel the speed on my face again.”
Challenges and Triumphs
In St. Moritz on Saturday (12/21/2024), the stakes are high for Vonn and her competitors. It is in the upscale Swiss ski resort that the now 40-year-old American will compete in her first World Cup race in 2,162 days, showcasing confidence and a new artificial knee joint. Surprisingly, she seems entirely comfortable with it.
Since her official retirement from skiing on February 10, 2019, Vonn struggled with her right knee, leading her to opt for a titanium artificial joint. This change has enabled her to ski freely without the constant pain she endured before. Vonn shared, “It’s completely different than before, and I’m genuinely happy. The 24-hour pain is a thing of the past. It’s wonderful. I feel stronger than in my mid and late twenties. I know what I’m capable of when my body cooperates, and this titanium part works quite well.”
Overcoming Criticism and Doubts
Despite Vonn’s excitement for her return, criticism has been harsh. Some accuse the polarizing US star of seeking attention and taking unnecessary risks. Speed disciplines like downhill skiing exert tremendous forces on the body, especially at speeds up to 130 km/h. Many view racing with an artificial joint as walking on a tightrope.
However, Vonn remains undeterred by the critique, stating that she has always been a polarizing figure, loved and hated by many. Doubts persist, especially in light of Marcel Hirscher’s failed comeback resulting in a knee injury after just three races. Nonetheless, Vonn remains unfazed by the possibility of falls, noting that it is part of the sport.
In St. Moritz, all eyes will be on Vonn, especially with her US teammate Mikaela Shiffrin sidelined. Competitors like Sofia Goggia will be eager to challenge her, following her impressive performance as a forerunner in Beaver Creek. Vonn’s determination to give her all hints at a fierce competition ahead, setting the stage for an exciting race on Saturday.
