In case it wasn’t already clear, Lindsey Vonn is back to claim her thrown as the queen of downhill skiing.
On Friday, Vonn picked up her first World Cup win since 2018. Although she trailed after the first two time checks, she found a way to win the women’s downhill in Switzerland. She posted a time of 1:29.63 to defeat runner-up Magdalena Egger and the rest of the field.
Advertisement
“It was an amazing day, I couldn’t be happier, pretty emotional,” Vonn told Swiss broadcaster RTS. “I felt good this summer but I wasn’t sure how fast I was. I guess I know now how fast I am.”
This was a remarkable performance for Vonn, who came out of retirement earlier this year despite undergoing partial knee replacement. She can now call herself the oldest skier to win a World Cup race.
When Vonn recorded a second-place finish in the super-G at the World Cup Finals, most fans applauded her spirit. Now that she has another World Cup victory on her resume, her fans are wondering if she’s got the best comeback in recent sports history.
Advertisement
ST MORITZ, SWITZERLAND – MARCH 16: Lindsey Vonn of the USA poses with the Women’s World Cup Downhill Crystal Globe trophy after the Women’s Downhill Race on March 16, 2016 in St Moritz, Switzerland. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)Matthias Hangst/Getty Images
“From retirement to victory! Lindsey Vonn proving age and injuries are no match,” one fan commented.
“This is a pretty impressive accomplishment,” a second wrote on X.
“Love her comeback story,” another fan said.
“Eight years out, titanium knee, five-year retirement… and still wins. Lindsey Vonn just redefined comeback,” a social media user added.
Vonn eyeing gold at the 2026 Olympics.
Although there are still a few more obstacles to hurdle, Vonn made it clear that she wants to make the podium at the Milana Cortina Winter Olympics.
Advertisement
“Obviously my goal is Cortina, but if this is the way we start, I think I’m in a good spot,” Vonn said Friday.
Judging by the reactions to Friday’s performance, there’ll be plenty of fans in Vonn’s corner.
Vonn already has three Olympic medals to her name. It’ll be interesting to see if she can add yet another at 41 years old.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 12, 2025, where it first appeared in the Olympics section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
