Lindsey Vonn Vows to Ski Again After Horrific Olympic Crash and Surgery
A defiant Lindsey Vonn has boldly suggested that she will one day return to skiing, despite suffering a horror crash at the Winter Olympics that sparked serious fears she could lose her left leg. The 41-year-old skiing legend underwent a fourth surgical procedure on her broken leg this past Saturday in a hospital in Italy, but she reassured her followers on social media that the operation went well and that she can soon return to the United States for recovery.
Emotional Social Media Post Reveals No Regrets
In an emotional and heartfelt post, Vonn added that she has absolutely no regrets about competing in the event. Remarkably, she had torn her ACL in her left knee just days before the catastrophic crash, but she insists that this pre-existing injury had no influence whatsoever over what ultimately happened. Vonn then made a stunning vow to ski again one day in the future, showcasing her unwavering passion and resilience.
While she surely meant this in a recreational sense rather than attempting once again to compete at the highest elite level, Vonn stated emphatically: 'Please, don’t feel sad. The ride was worth the fall. When I close my eyes at night I don’t have regrets and the love I have for skiing remains.' She continued with determination, 'I am still looking forward to the moment when I can stand on the top of the mountain once more. And I will.'
Successful Surgery and Recovery Plans
Vonn also provided a detailed explanation that her fourth surgery on the leg had been a complete success, saying: 'Surgery went well today! Thankfully I will be able to finally go back to the US!' She elaborated further, noting, 'Once I’m back I will give you more updates and info about my injury…. But until then, as I sit here in my bed reflecting, I have a few thoughts I’d like to share…'
Rejecting Pity and Embracing Strength
Vonn then insisted strongly that she does not want people pitying her after enduring such a horrifying leg break. She expressed, 'I have been reading a lot of messages and comments saying that what has happened to me makes them sad. Please, don’t be sad.' She clarified her stance, adding, 'Empathy, love and support I welcome with an open heart, but please not sadness or sympathy.'
Instead, Vonn hopes her experience inspires others, stating, 'I hope instead it gives you strength to keep fighting, because that is what I am doing and that is what I will continue to do. Always.' She reflected on the inherent risks of her sport, explaining, 'When I think back on my crash, I didn’t stand in the starting gate unaware of the potential consequences. I knew what I was doing. I chose to take a risk. Every skier in that starting gate took the same risk.' Vonn concluded with a poignant reminder, 'Because even if you are the strongest person in the world, the mountain always holds the cards.'
Cherishing Final Memories Before the Crash
To share a glimpse of her final moments before the life-altering incident, Vonn posted a video of her last run prior to the crash at the games. She captioned it fondly, 'This was my last run before my Olympic race. A classic Cortina day. Thankful I have this memory.' This gesture highlights her positive outlook and gratitude despite the severe setback.
