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Vonn Defies Odds, Crashes in Olympic Downhill
9 Feb
Summary
- Vonn competed with a torn ACL and fractured leg.
- She was airlifted to a hospital after crashing on the course.
- Vonn expressed her love for ski racing as motivation.
Lindsey Vonn, 41, demonstrated remarkable resilience by competing in the Olympic downhill event on Sunday, February 9, 2026, despite a torn ACL sustained last month. The American skier crashed just 13 seconds into her run and was airlifted to an Italian hospital for orthopedic surgery to stabilize a fracture in her left leg.
An orthopedic operation was performed to address the fracture, with Vonn being treated by a multidisciplinary team. She is reported to be in stable condition and in the care of American and Italian physicians. Her sister confirmed Vonn would be okay, though it will be a recovery process.
Vonn had publicly shared her motivation for competing, stating her deep love for ski racing was the driving force. She acknowledged the significant odds against her due to her age, lack of an ACL, and a titanium knee, yet expressed unwavering self-belief.
