Sensational skiing legend Vonn prepares for her highly anticipated return.
Skiing legends Marcel Hirscher and Lindsey Vonn are generating buzz in the sports world with talk of potential returns to the World Cup circuit. According to reports, Vonn, who turns 40 in a few months and has an artificial knee, intends to serve as a pacesetter in Beaver Creek's World Cup races in December. If she feels her form is up to par, she might even participate in the races again. The once-unbeatable downhill skier, who boasts multiple World Cup titles and Olympic gold, has yet to address these rumors publicly.
Vonn last competed at the 2019 World Championships in Sweden. She underwent surgery for an artificial knee in the spring of 2024. Recently, she was spotted training on the Rettenbach glacier in Sölden, where the opening World Cup races will take place at the end of October. Austrian downhill coach Sepp Brunner observed Vonn's training, commenting on her determined approach.
Additionally, it's been reported that Vonn's ski manufacturer, Head, has assigned her renowned technician, Chris Krause, to support her. With 82 World Cup victories under her belt, Vonn is currently the third in the all-time list, trailing behind Mikaela Shiffrin (97) and Ingemar Stenmark (86).
The International Ski Federation (FIS) has recently introduced a rule making it easier for former athletes to return to the World Cup. Previously, they had to earn points in lower-tier races to qualify, but now they can benefit from wildcards.
Just like Vonn, Hirscher, the former world-class skier, is considering a comeback. He's aiming to represent the Netherlands and is currently preparing for the giant slalom in Sölden in October. However, whether he'll be in top shape by then is still uncertain. Hirscher, who was once the world's best skier, recently received a wildcard from the FIS to help him navigate his return.
Sports enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating potential returns of skiing legends Lindsey Vonn and Marcel Hirscher to the World Cup circuit, following their respective announcements. Vonn, with her impressive records and determination, continues to train on the Rettenbach glacier, aiming to make a comeback in the sports world.
