Lindsey Vonn Undergoes Surgery After Devastating Leg Fracture at Milan Cortina Olympics
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Lindsey Vonn, the celebrated American alpine ski racer, underwent urgent surgery Sunday after a severe crash during the women’s downhill event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina. Officials at the Ca’Foncello hospital in Treviso confirmed that Vonn was treated by a multidisciplinary medical team to stabilize a fracture in her left leg sustained in the accident.
Vonn, a veteran Olympian known for her resilience and competitive spirit, was competing despite a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her knee. Seconds into her run, she lost control on the steep course and crashed hard in the first sector, an incident captured by Olympic Broadcasting Services. She was visibly in pain and required immediate medical attention on the mountain.
A helicopter was dispatched to evacuate Vonn from the slopes to a local clinic in Cortina, from where she was transferred to the hospital in Treviso for surgery. The U.S. Ski Team issued a statement assuring that Vonn was in stable condition and receiving expert care from a collaborative team of American and Italian physicians. Anouk Patty, chief of sport for U.S. Ski and Snowboard, said, “She’ll be OK, but it’s going to be a bit of a process.”
This injury comes amid Vonn’s remarkable determination to compete at the highest level despite previous setbacks, including the ACL rupture she powered through during this Olympic run. The accident has sent shockwaves through the skiing community and Olympic fans worldwide, highlighting the inherent risks of high-speed alpine skiing.
Medical experts emphasize the complexity of treating fractures combined with ligament injuries in elite athletes. The multidisciplinary approach at Ca’Foncello hospital reflects best practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health for managing traumatic sports injuries.
Vonn’s career has been marked by numerous accolades and comebacks, including multiple World Cup titles and Olympic medals. Her determination to race despite injury underscores the physical and mental demands placed on Olympic athletes. The U.S. Ski and Snowboard organization continues to monitor her condition closely and will provide updates as her recovery progresses.
As the Winter Games proceed, Vonn’s injury serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers athletes face in pursuit of Olympic glory. The International Olympic Committee and related sports safety bodies, such as the International Olympic Committee, continue to review course safety standards to minimize risks in high-speed events.
Fans and fellow athletes have expressed widespread support for Vonn, applauding her courage and wishing her a swift recovery. Her legacy as one of the sport’s greatest competitors remains intact even as she embarks on the challenging road to rehabilitation.
For ongoing updates on Olympic events and athlete health, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee provides official communications and resources.
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