Lindsey Vonn has provided an update from her hospital bed after undergoing a third surgery on a fractured tibia, sustained in a crash during the women's downhill at the Winter Olympics on Sunday. The 41-year-old American skier clipped a gate 13 seconds into her run, losing balance and crashing into the slope.
Vonn was airlifted to a hospital in Trevino for treatment, where it was revealed she would need multiple surgeries. In a social media post on Wednesday evening, she confirmed the third operation was successful. 'Success today has a completely different meaning than it did a few days ago,' she wrote, adding that progress is slow but she is grateful for medical staff, family, and fans' support.
The injury has raised questions about her recovery timeline. Orthopaedic surgeon Filippo Pierfrancesco Calanna stated that a return to skiing could take eight to 11 months if no complications arise. However, Vonn's history of injuries to the same leg, including a partial knee implant, may affect recovery. Former Inter Milan doctor Arturo Guarino noted that if the prosthesis suffered damage in the fall, additional intervention could extend the recovery period.
Vonn concluded her post with congratulations to her teammates and Team USA athletes still competing, saying they continue to inspire her.
