Lindsey Vonn Recovers from Third Surgery on Broken Leg After Olympic Crash
American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has announced a successful third surgery on the broken leg she suffered during the women's Olympic downhill event at the Milan Cortina Games. The 41-year-old athlete shared an update on Instagram, posting photos of herself in a hospital bed with a metal frame attached to her leg, giving a thumbs-up sign.
In her post, Vonn reflected on the shifting meaning of success, stating, "I had my 3rd surgery today and it was successful. Success today has a completely different meaning than it did a few days ago." She added, "I'm making progress and while it is slow, I know I'll be ok." This comes after she crashed just 13 seconds into her run on Sunday, resulting in a complex tibia fracture that required airlifting off the course by helicopter.
Injury Details and Medical Response
Vonn described her injury as a "complex tibia fracture that is currently stable but will require multiple surgeries to fix properly." This incident occurred only nine days after she ruptured the ACL in her left knee in another crash, compounding her challenges. She is being treated at a hospital in Treviso, where her father, Alan Kildow, reported she is surrounded by family at all times.
The medical team has been praised by Vonn, who expressed gratitude for the support she has received. "Thankful for all of the incredible medical staff, friends, family, who have been by my side and the beautiful outpouring of love and support from people around the world," she said. She also congratulated her teammates and Team USA athletes for their performances, noting they inspire her during her recovery.
Background and Recent Performance
Lindsey Vonn's return to skiing has been a notable story, as she came out of nearly six years of retirement in December 2024 after undergoing knee replacement surgery earlier that year. Prior to the Olympics, she was the top speed racer this season, achieving two downhill wins and podium finishes in seven out of eight World Cup races she completed, with a fourth-place finish in the other.
Holding the record of 12 World Cup victories in Cortina, Vonn's crash marks a dramatic turn in what was anticipated to be a feelgood narrative of her comeback. Despite the setbacks, she has stated she has no regrets over her decision to race, with fellow skiers defending her choice. The incident highlights the risks inherent in high-speed winter sports and the resilience required for recovery.
