Lindsey Vonn’s Recovery Journey: From Olympic Crash to Rehabilitation

Lindsey Vonn, the decorated Olympic skier, is navigating a challenging recovery after a severe crash during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The 41-year-old athlete sustained a fractured left leg and underwent multiple surgeries before returning to the United States to continue her rehabilitation.

The Crash and Initial Treatment

Vonn crashed just 13 seconds into her downhill race on February 8, 2026, despite already competing with a torn ACL sustained during a training run in Switzerland a week prior to the Games. She was airlifted off the course and initially treated in Italy, undergoing four surgeries to stabilize the fracture in her left leg .

Return to the United States and Rehabilitation

Vonn returned to the United States on March 1, 2026, and has been sharing updates on her recovery process via social media. She posted a video on March 5, 2026, showcasing the difficult exercises she’s undertaking as part of her rehabilitation . Despite experiencing pain, Vonn remains determined, stating, “The only goal is to get healthy. One day at a time.”

A Bittersweet Homecoming

Even as grateful to be back on American soil, Vonn is also grieving the loss of her dog, Leo, who died the day after her Olympic crash. She expressed the emotional difficulty of returning home without him .

Gratitude for the Medical Team

Vonn has publicly acknowledged and thanked the medical professionals who have supported her throughout her career and during her recent recovery. She specifically praised Dr. Tom Hackett for potentially saving her leg from amputation, as well as Dr. Roche for her knee replacement and the broader team who worked to get her back on the slopes, even with a torn ACL .

The End of a Remarkable Career?

Vonn retired from skiing in 2019 before making a comeback in 2024 after undergoing a knee replacement. Her father, Alan Kidlow, has indicated that this latest injury likely marks the end of her competitive career . Despite the possibility of further surgeries, Vonn remains focused on her recovery and well-being.