Lindsey Vonn’s Career Likely Over After Olympic Crash
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – Lindsey Vonn’s Olympic journey and potentially her storied skiing career came to a heartbreaking end Monday after suffering a leg injury during the downhill race at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympic Games. Her father, Alan Kildow, stated he believes this crash marks the end of her competitive skiing career.
“She’s 41 years classic and this is the end of her career,” Kildow said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press. “There will be no more ski races for Lindsey Vonn, as long as I have anything to say about it.”
Vonn underwent surgery on her left leg Sunday following the crash and is currently in stable condition, according to a statement released by the hospital in Treviso. The U.S. Ski Team has also confirmed her condition. Further updates on her injuries have not been released.
The crash occurred during the Olympic downhill in Cortina, with photos capturing the moments leading up to the incident. Vonn’s family, including her father, brother, and two sisters, were present at the finish area and have remained with her during her treatment.
Despite the severity of her injury, Kildow emphasized Vonn’s strength and resilience. “She’s a very strong individual,” he said. “She knows physical pain and she understands the circumstances that she finds herself in. And she’s able to handle it. Better than I expected. She’s a very, very strong person. And so I think she’s handling it real well.”
The incident has prompted an outpouring of support for Vonn, including a message from Jannik Sinner, as reported by Adnkronos. This marks a potential end to a remarkable career for one of the most decorated skiers in history, leaving a significant void in the world of winter sports.
The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Games are being broadcast live on NBC and Peacock.
