In a remarkable comeback, alpine skiing legend Lindsey Vonn is set to make her first World Cup start since 2019. The 40-year-old athlete, who retired in 2020 after an illustrious 18-season career, will rejoin the U.S. ski team for the 2024-25 season. Her return marks a significant moment in the world of competitive skiing, as she aims to reclaim her place among the elite and potentially add to her impressive record.

Witness the Comeback of a Champion

Vonn's Journey Back to the Podium

Lindsey Vonn’s path back to the World Cup circuit has been nothing short of extraordinary. After stepping away from professional racing in 2020, Vonn has spent years contemplating her next move. Her decision to return was fueled by an unquenchable passion for the sport and a desire to write a new chapter in her storied career. This weekend, Vonn will compete in the St. Moritz super-G series, marking her first appearance on the World Cup stage since 2019.Earlier this month, Vonn participated in two FIS super-G races at Copper Mountain, Colorado. Despite finishing 24th and 19th, these performances were crucial in earning her enough points to qualify for a World Cup return. These races served as a litmus test, offering valuable insights into her current form and potential. While not her best results, they demonstrated Vonn’s resilience and determination to regain her competitive edge.

A New Rule, A Fresh Opportunity

A recent amendment to FIS Alpine Ski World Cup rules has provided Vonn with a unique opportunity. The introduction of a wild card option ensures that returning racers receive a starting position after the top 30 competitors. In St. Moritz, Vonn will secure the 31st spot, thanks to this rule change. This provision mirrors the one utilized by Marcel Hirscher when he made his own return to ski racing earlier this year. The rule underscores the governing body’s commitment to supporting athletes’ comeback efforts and maintaining the integrity of competition.Vonn’s last World Cup race took place in Cortina d’Ampezzo in January 2019, just weeks before her retirement. Now, with Cortina co-hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics alongside Milan, Vonn sees this as a chance to redefine her legacy. The prospect of competing on familiar ground offers both emotional and strategic advantages. As she eyes the possibility of adding to her already impressive tally of 28 super-G wins, Vonn’s return to St. Moritz sets the stage for a thrilling narrative of perseverance and triumph.

Competitive Landscape and Challenges

Since Vonn’s departure from the competitive scene, Mikaela Shiffrin has surpassed her record for most World Cup wins. Shiffrin now holds 99 victories, compared to Vonn’s 82. However, Vonn remains unmatched in downhill and super-G events, boasting records of 43 and 28 wins, respectively. Her return to the World Cup stage presents an opportunity to challenge these figures and solidify her status as one of the greatest skiers in history.The upcoming St. Moritz races will see Vonn competing against a formidable lineup of U.S. Ski & Snowboard women, including Keely Cashman, Breezy Johnson, Lauren Macuga, Tricia Mangan, Allison Mollin, Jackie Wiles, and Bella Wright. Each of these athletes brings their own strengths and ambitions to the table, creating a highly competitive environment. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding Shiffrin’s participation due to a recent injury adds an element of unpredictability to the event. Whether or not Shiffrin can return to action this season remains to be seen, but her absence could shift the dynamics of the competition.

Setting the Stage for Future Success

Vonn’s return to the World Cup circuit is more than just a personal milestone; it symbolizes the enduring spirit of competitive skiing. Her presence on the slopes serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of perseverance. By participating in the St. Moritz super-G series, Vonn aims to not only reclaim her former glory but also pave the way for future generations.The races are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at 4:30 a.m. ET and 5:00 a.m. ET, respectively, and can be streamed live via skiandsnowboard.live. Fans and enthusiasts alike will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the resurgence of a true champion. As Vonn prepares to take on the challenges ahead, the world watches with bated breath, eager to see what the future holds for this iconic figure in the world of alpine skiing.