Lindsey Vonn Reveals She Hasn’t Been Able to Stand Since Olympic Crash
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Lindsey Vonn, the celebrated American alpine skiing champion, returned to the United States on Monday and disclosed that she has not been able to stand on her own in over a week following a devastating crash at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The incident, which occurred during the women’s downhill event at the Milano Cortina Games on February 8, left Vonn with a fractured left leg and a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), injuries that have significantly impacted the Olympic icon’s mobility and recovery timeline.
Vonn’s determination to compete despite a ruptured ACL was widely noted, but the crash abruptly ended her bid for an Olympic podium finish. According to reports from the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, she underwent multiple surgeries overseas to repair the damage to her leg and is expected to require additional procedures in the United States. In a candid update shared shortly after her arrival, Vonn said, “Haven’t stood on my feet in over a week… been in a hospital bed immobile since my race.”
The 37-year-old skier’s injury highlights the inherent risks of high-speed alpine skiing, a sport governed by the International Ski Federation, which maintains rigorous safety protocols but cannot eliminate the dangers athletes face on challenging courses. Vonn’s crash was captured during her attempt to power through the pain of her ACL injury, a testament to her resilience but also a reminder of the physical toll elite athletes endure.
Medical experts, including those affiliated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emphasize that recovery from such traumatic injuries can be prolonged and complex, often requiring extensive rehabilitation to regain full function. Vonn’s situation underscores the challenges athletes confront when balancing competitive drive with long-term health considerations.
The 2026 Winter Olympics have seen a series of intense competitions and moments of heartbreak, with Vonn’s accident standing out as a poignant episode. The International Olympic Committee has reiterated its commitment to athlete safety and support, providing medical assistance and resources to competitors injured during the Games.
As Vonn begins the next phase of her recovery back home, fans and fellow athletes alike have expressed their support and admiration for her courage. While the road ahead may be uncertain, her legacy as one of America’s greatest skiers remains firmly intact. Updates on her condition and rehabilitation will continue to be closely followed by the sporting community and media worldwide.
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