Lindsey Vonn Crashes in Final Downhill Before Winter Olympics

In a harrowing turn of events, American skier Lindsey Vonn crashed during her last downhill race before the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics on February 2, 2024. The incident occurred in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, where Vonn lost control while landing a jump, resulting in a tumble into the safety nets. After receiving medical attention, she limped away, favoring her left knee.

Vonn, 41, had been in strong form this season, leading the circuit with two victories and three podium finishes. The crash has raised concerns just a week before the Olympic opening ceremony. Following her fall, Vonn paused to assess her knee before making her way to the finish area, where she entered a medical tent for further evaluation.

Race Conditions and Immediate Impact

Visibility issues plagued the race, with snowfall contributing to the challenging conditions. Romane Miradoli of France, who managed to complete her run, commented on the difficulties, stating, “You can’t see, and it’s bumpy everywhere.” The race was ultimately canceled after three competitors crashed, including Nina Ortlieb of Austria and Marte Monsen of Norway, both of whom fell in the same area before Vonn.

Vonn’s crash marked her as the sixth racer to start that day, following the earlier falls of Ortlieb and Monsen, who required medical transport after hitting the nets near the finish line. Despite the cancellation, teammate Jacquelin Wiles had been leading the race when it was called off, reflecting the day’s chaotic events.

Looking Ahead to the Olympics

Vonn’s first Olympic race is scheduled for the women’s downhill on February 8, 2024. She also plans to compete in the super-G and the newly introduced team combined event at the Games, which will take place in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a venue where she has celebrated 12 World Cup victories.

In her last run before the Olympics, Vonn had registered the fastest time at the initial checkpoint. As she attempted to regain her balance after landing, she lifted her left arm and pole high, but lost control as she braked, leading to her crash. The sequence of events underscores the inherent risks of the sport, particularly under challenging conditions.

This incident is not Vonn’s first brush with serious injury; she previously suffered a severe knee injury during the 2013 World Championships in Schladming, Austria, requiring her to be airlifted off the slope. The resilience she has shown throughout her career will be tested once again as she prepares for the upcoming Olympic events.

As Vonn navigates this setback, the skiing community watches closely, hoping for her swift recovery and successful participation in the Winter Olympics.