Lindsey Vonn, the celebrated American alpine skier, made a remarkable return to competitive skiing at the 2025 FIS World Alpine Skiing Championships in Saalbach, Austria, after a six-year hiatus. At 40, she became the oldest female skier to compete at the World Championships, a testament to her enduring passion and resilience.
However, her comeback was marred by a significant setback during the Super-G event on February 6, 2025. In the opening seconds of her run, Vonn collided with a gate, causing her to briefly lose feeling in her right arm. Despite this, she reported that the sensation was gradually returning.
This incident occurred amidst a series of challenges leading up to the Championships. Vonn had been battling flu-like symptoms, which prompted her to use a nebulizer to clear her sinuses. Additionally, she had suffered a high-speed crash during training in January 2025, which raised concerns about her readiness for the competition.
Despite these hurdles, Vonn’s determination remained unwavering. She expressed her commitment to competing in the upcoming downhill events, aiming to fulfill her goal of participating in the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Vonn’s return to the World Championships was met with mixed reactions. While many admired her resilience and dedication, some critics questioned her decision to return at 40, highlighting the challenges of aging in a sport known for its physical demands. Vonn addressed these concerns, emphasizing her passion for the sport and her desire to inspire others.
In the Super-G event, Austrian skier Stephanie Venier clinched the gold medal, edging out Italy’s Federica Brignone by 0.1 seconds. The bronze was shared by the U.S.’s Lauren Macuga and Norway’s Kajsa Vickhoff Lie.
Vonn’s journey underscores the challenges and triumphs of an athlete returning to the pinnacle of their sport after a significant hiatus. Her story continues to inspire many, reflecting the enduring spirit of a champion.
