Lindsey Vonn Announces Return to Skiing After Five-Year Retirement

Lindsey Vonn, one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time, has confirmed she is coming out of retirement and returning to the sport after a five-year hiatus. Vonn, who retired in 2019 after 18 years on the World Cup circuit, will rejoin the US Ski Team in Colorado, following a successful knee surgery earlier this year.

Vonn, now 40, called her return “an incredible journey” as she reflected on her recovery from a serious knee injury that led to her retirement. In a statement released by US Ski & Snowboard, she expressed her excitement about returning to the slopes.

“Getting back to skiing without pain has been an incredible journey,” Vonn said. “I am looking forward to being back with the Stifel US Ski Team and to continue to share my knowledge of the sport with these incredible women.”

Known for her resilience and determination, Vonn had faced multiple serious injuries during her illustrious career. However, it was a persistent knee problem that ultimately forced her to step away from the sport five years ago. After undergoing partial knee replacement surgery in April 2024, Vonn has been steadily testing her fitness in recent months, clearing the way for her return to competitive skiing.

Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of US Ski & Snowboard, welcomed Vonn’s return, praising her remarkable impact on the sport. “Lindsey has made an indelible mark on alpine skiing and our organization throughout her career. We’re delighted to welcome her back,” Goldschmidt said. “Her dedication and passion for alpine skiing is inspiring, and we’re excited to have her back on snow.”

At the time of her retirement, Vonn was the most decorated female skier in history, with three Winter Olympic medals, eight World Championship medals, and 82 World Cup race wins. However, that title was recently surpassed by fellow American Mikaela Shiffrin, who now holds the record for most World Cup wins by a female skier.

In an interview with The New York Times, Vonn hinted at the possibility of competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, though she stopped short of committing to that goal. “I’ve always enjoyed racing in Cortina and I’ve had a lot of success there,” Vonn said. “I don’t know what the next few months and the next year and a half hold for me, so I can’t say right now if it’s a possibility.”

As she prepares to return to the slopes, the skiing world eagerly anticipates what may be the next chapter in the legendary career of Lindsey Vonn.