Lindsey Vonn has posted on social media for the first time since her devastating high-speed crash at the Winter Olympics in Milan. The 41-year-old American skier, who competed despite a ruptured ACL in her left knee suffered days before the Games, lost her balance after hitting a gate and tumbled at tremendous speed. She was flown by helicopter to hospital for surgery.
Vonn underwent a further medical procedure on Monday to address a femur fracture in her left leg using external fixation. She has since been moved to intensive care for privacy. Breaking her silence, Vonn replied to a post from television presenter Dan Walker, who had praised her courage. She wrote: 'Thank you Dan,' alongside a praying hands emoji.
Her sister, Karin Kildow, confirmed Vonn was aware of the risks and assured supporters she is receiving the highest standard of medical treatment. Kildow said: 'She just dared greatly and she put it all out there. It's really hard to see, but we just really hope she's okay.'
Roberto Cit, the helicopter pilot who responded to the crash, said weather conditions were optimal and the operation was successful. It remains unclear whether Vonn will return to competitive skiing after her recovery.
