Lindsey Vonn discusses career goals and injury recovery

American alpine skier Lindsey Vonn has shared her vision for a “fairytale” conclusion to her professional career. Following a severe accident at the Milano-Cortina Olympic Games that resulted in a complex tibia fracture and required eight surgeries, Vonn is currently evaluating her physical and mental readiness to return to competition.

During an appearance on Maria Sharapova’s “Pretty Tough” podcast, Vonn discussed the challenges of returning to elite sports at age 41. She noted the double standards faced by female athletes, stating that while male athletes are often encouraged to push limits at advanced ages, women face stricter social judgments. Vonn described the pressure of being criticized for being too old while simultaneously being expected to perform at an elite level.

Vonn intends to make a final decision regarding her future in the sport following medical procedures scheduled for November. Her ideal scenario involves returning to win another Olympic downhill title, though she noted she does not strictly need another title to feel satisfied with her achievements.