American alpine skier Lindsey Vonn is preparing to kick off her 2025-26 World Cup season with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Milan Olympic Games. After years away from competitive skiing and following a major surgery that reshaped both her health and perspective, Vonn is focused on a full mental and physical reset.
In a recent interview, Vonn described her recovery process as transformative.
“This surgery changed the way my body moves, and it’s given me a chance to start over,” she noted.
Her rehabilitation involved months of physical therapy and regaining muscle balance lost over years of racing injuries. She emphasized the importance of patience and incremental progress, saying that every day brought her a step closer to skiing pain-free again.
Beyond physical recovery, Vonn has been intentional about her mental reset. She shared that her return to training now includes mindfulness, meditation, and strength work suited to an athlete entering a new stage in life.
“It’s not about trying to be who I was,” Vonn explained. “It’s about being the best version of who I am now.”
Vonn’s renewed perspective has helped her find joy in the process again rather than just the results on the scoreboard.
With her sights set on Milan, Vonn is planning her most strategic season yet. She aims to pace herself through the World Cup circuit, focusing on specific events that play to her strengths. Her comeback embodies resilience and determination, qualities that have made her one of the most decorated female skiers in history.
For Vonn, this comeback extends beyond medals. She hopes her story inspires others facing setbacks to find new strength in adversity.
“If my journey shows anything, it’s that there’s always a way back,” she said, reflecting on the years of challenges behind her.
Her narrative continues to evolve, blending world-class athleticism with a personal message of endurance and reinvention.
Author’s Summary: Lindsey Vonn’s post-surgery reset balances physical recovery and mental renewal as she prepares for a powerful Olympic comeback in Milan 2026.