Team USA skier Lindsey Vonn has reportedly been discharged from a hospital in Italy, approximately one week after a terrifying crash abruptly concluded her Olympic comeback attempt. The incident occurred during the women's downhill final at the Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy, on Sunday, 8 February 2026.
Details of the Olympic Crash
Vonn, aged 41, was airlifted off the piste after crashing merely 13 seconds into her final run in the downhill event. Witnesses reported hearing the athlete scream as medical personnel swiftly surrounded her to provide urgent care. Initially, she was taken to a local hospital in Cortina before being transferred to a larger medical facility in Treviso for more comprehensive treatment.
Recovery and Surgical Procedures
According to orthopaedic specialists, Vonn sustained a complex tibia fracture from the crash, which typically requires a recovery period of eight to 11 months. She underwent multiple surgeries during her hospital stay, with her fourth procedure reportedly going well, as she shared in an Instagram post. Vonn expressed relief at being able to return to the United States for further medical attention, including another scheduled operation.
In her social media updates, Vonn reflected on the risks inherent in competitive skiing, stating, "When I think back on my crash, I didn't stand in the starting gate unaware of the potential consequences. I knew what I was doing. I chose to take a risk. Every skier in that starting gate took the same risk. Because even if you are the strongest person in the world, the mountain always holds the cards."
Olympic Comeback and Historical Context
Vonn, the 2010 Olympic champion and the second most successful female World Cup skier in history, had aimed to become the oldest Alpine skiing medallist in Olympic history. Her participation in the downhill final came just over a week after she ruptured her ACL in a crash at a World Cup event in Switzerland, highlighting her determination and resilience.
Future Outlook and Personal Resolve
Despite the severe injury and setback, Vonn remains optimistic about her future in skiing. She affirmed, "The love I have for skiing remains. I am still looking forward to the moment when I can stand on the top of the mountain once more. And I will." Her discharge from the hospital marks a positive step in her recovery journey, as she prepares to continue treatment back in the United States.
Reuters news agency cited two sources close to the matter, confirming that Vonn has left the hospital and headed to Treviso airport. This development brings a close to the immediate medical chapter of her Olympic ordeal, though her path to full recovery is expected to be lengthy and challenging.
