Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News

Lindsey Vonn Battles Illness Ahead Of World Championships Return

United States' Lindsey Vonn is airborne during a women’s downhill training, at the Alpine Ski World Championships, in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. (Jean-Christophe Bott/Keys

As the world championships in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria, approach, American ski racing legend Lindsey Vonn finds herself grappling with illness on the eve of her comeback at the age of 40. Vonn, a two-time world champion and a holder of eight medals at the prestigious event, expressed her struggles with what she suspects to be a cold or flu.

Vonn, scheduled to compete in the super-G event on Thursday, shared in an audio statement that she began feeling unwell the previous day and is making efforts to recuperate. Despite her condition, Vonn participated in Wednesday's downhill training session, finishing in 29th place.

On social media, Vonn posted an Instagram story showing her wearing a mask and undergoing a treatment, indicating her current state was less than ideal. She acknowledged feeling a lack of energy during training but remains hopeful for her upcoming races, including the downhill on Saturday and the team combined event next week.

Reflecting on her performance in training, Vonn noted that while she struggled with energy levels, she aims to rest and prepare for the super-G competition. She is set to start with the No. 30 bib in the super-G event.

She suspects a cold or flu, impacting her energy levels.
Lindsey Vonn faces illness ahead of world championships in Austria.
Vonn participated in downhill training despite feeling unwell.
She remains hopeful for upcoming super-G, downhill, and team combined events.

In Wednesday's training session, Mirjam Puchner of Austria topped the leaderboard, with Vonn's American teammate Breezy Johnson securing the second position for the second consecutive day. Vonn's participation in the world championships has garnered significant attention, marking her return to competitive skiing after a brief hiatus.

Despite facing health challenges, Vonn's determination and resilience shine through as she gears up to showcase her skills on the slopes once again. Skiing enthusiasts and fans eagerly await Vonn's performance in the upcoming events, rooting for her success in the face of adversity.

For more updates and coverage on alpine skiing, visit the AP skiing hub at AP skiing.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.