By Score More Sports with Agencies
Park City, UT (Nov. 14, 2024)
In a move that has thrilled ski enthusiasts worldwide, alpine legend Lindsey Vonn has announced her return to competitive skiing with the Stifel U.S. Ski Team. This decision follows her successful recovery from knee surgery earlier this year, marking a new chapter in her illustrious career.
Vonn, a three-time Olympic medalist, and four-time overall World Cup champion, underwent a partial knee replacement in April. After months of rigorous training and testing her knee’s strength, she’s ready to rejoin the sport she has defined for nearly two decades.
“Getting back to skiing without pain has been an incredible journey,” Vonn shared. “I am looking forward to being back with the Stifel U.S. Ski Team and to continue to share my knowledge of the sport with these incredible women.”
Vonn’s return injects additional experience and inspiration into an already successful women’s alpine program, which had a strong 2023-24 season. Her presence is expected to elevate the team’s performance and serve as a beacon of motivation for younger athletes.
“Lindsey has made an indelible mark on alpine skiing and our organization throughout her career,” said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “Her dedication and passion for the sport are inspiring, and we’re excited to see where this next chapter takes her.”
Vonn’s record-breaking career boasts 82 World Cup victories, 20 World Cup titles, and eight World Championship medals. Despite enduring numerous injuries during her career, she consistently displayed resilience, becoming one of the most decorated athletes in alpine skiing history before retiring in 2019.
Now, she aims to share her wealth of experience with her teammates and continue her mission to empower young women through her Lindsey Vonn Foundation, which offers scholarships and mentorship programs to underserved girls.
Current Stifel U.S. Ski Team athlete Bella Wright expressed her excitement about Vonn’s return: “Lindsey has been an incredible mentor throughout my time on the World Cup circuit. The opportunity to ski alongside her is a dream come true. I can’t wait to see what the U.S. women can accomplish this season with her on board.”
As Vonn resumes her training in Colorado and prepares for upcoming challenges, her return promises to captivate fans and reinforce her legacy as a trailblazer in the world of alpine skiing.