A tragic and shocking end to one of the greatest careers alpine skiing has ever known? Lindsey Vonn, the American sports legend, crashed on Sunday during the finals of the downhill competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy and was evacuated from the course after long minutes of medical treatment.
Vonn, 41, who came to the Games in an attempt to complete an extraordinary comeback, lost control in one of the fast sections of the Olimpia della Topana course and was thrown forcefully into the snow. Medical teams were immediately summoned, and the skier remained lying on the course for an extended time while the race was completely stopped.
U.S. ski star Lindsey Vonn was injured in a crash during the Winter Olympics and was airlifted by helicopter to a medical facility. pic.twitter.com/g4KrageW1q
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After long minutes of initial treatment, Vonn was evacuated from the course on a stretcher before the eyes of a stunned and silent crowd. At this stage, no official statement has been released regarding the severity of the injury, but it appears this time it may bring her career to an end.
Only days before the competition, Vonn sparked controversy when she trained despite a tear in her anterior cruciate ligament in her knee, an injury she has suffered since the end of last month. Her very participation in the finals was considered by many a major gamble, leaning on experience, courage, and a desire to close a circle precisely in Cortina, a site of special significance for her.
Vonn retired for the first time in 2019 after a glorious career that included 82 World Cup victories, four overall World Cup titles, and a collection of Olympic medals and world championships. Her return to the courses at age 41 and her reaching the Olympic finals despite a serious injury were presented as one of the most extraordinary comeback stories in the history of the sport.
Now, it appears that the crash in Cortina could become the ending moment of a giant career.
