Lindsey Vonn

Lindsey Vonn Ditches Retirement Like Old Ski Gear—And We Can't Wait!

Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn is racing back onto the slopes at 40! Will she steal the spotlight in 2026?

In a thrilling announcement that has ski fans buzzing, Lindsey Vonn, the iconic gold medalist and arguably one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time, is making a comeback to the U.S. Ski Team for the 2024-25 season. After hanging up her skis in 2020, following a remarkable 18-season career filled with records and groundbreaking achievements, Vonn has had her fair share of challenges. From knee injuries that sidelined her to her subsequent knee replacement surgery, fans thought they’d seen the last of this skiing powerhouse. But, at 40 years old, Vonn is eager to swoosh down slopes once again, eyeing the 2026 Olympics in Italy.

What inspired her return? Vonn cites her admiration for sports legends like LeBron James and Roger Federer, who also returned to their sports after considerable time off. With a newfound sense of freedom from pain, thanks to her rehabilitative journey, Vonn is excited not just to race, but also to share her experience and knowledge with the next generation of skiers. Her announcement has sparked a mix of excitement and disbelief—can anyone ever really be too old to chase their sporting dreams? Apparently not!

While coming out of retirement at 40 is impressive, it’s even more incredible when you consider her earlier record-breaking feats, including an astounding 82 World Cup wins. Vonn will bring a unique perspective to the team as she juggles both her passion for skiing and her role as a mentor for young athletes. As skiing and life often intertwine (who doesn't love a good après-ski!), Vonn’s return not only heralds hope for her fans but also reinforces the spirit of resilience that athletes embody.

As the world eagerly awaits her February 2026 Olympic return, let’s not forget that Vonn has spent nearly two decades solidifying her legacy. Over her career, she has claimed every major title in skiing, including World Cup titles, World Championship honors, and Olympic medals. Her story serves as a reminder that age is merely a number, especially when it comes to pursuing one’s passion. Here’s to Lindsey Vonn—may her comeback be as fierce as her racing days and as inspiring as her life story!