Lindsey Vonn to race at Winter Olympics despite tearing ACL | Other | Sport

However, the 41-year-old, who currently leads the World Cup downhill standings after two victories and five podium finishes in five races, remains determined to compete. Vonn, who previously had a two-year relationship with golf legend Tiger Woods, is relying heavily on her support staff to ensure she can take her place on the starting line.

“I’m leaning on everyone on my team,” Vonn stated at a press conference in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. “Everyone is working as hard as they can to get me to a place where I feel confident.

“This is obviously not what I hoped for,” she continued. “I have been working really hard to come into these Games in a much different position.

“I know what my chances were before the crash and I know that my chances aren’t the same as it stands now. But I know there is still a chance.

“As long as there is a chance, I’ll try. That’s where I am.”

Vonn sustained the devastating injury following a fall during the final World Cup downhill event prior to the Olympics in Crans-Montana last Friday. The veteran was transported by helicopter from the finish area.

Her knee has provided some stability in recent days, but Vonn has not yet attempted a run at full speed. The three-time Olympic medallist, who is in the second year of a comeback following a five-year retirement, has previously achieved success whilst carrying injuries.

Vonn recalled the 2019 world championships, where she competed with knee injuries and still claimed a medal.

“Thankfully, actually, all of my experience in my life has given me a lot of confidence in what my body can and cannot do,” she said.

“I’ve been in this position before. I know how to handle it. … Even though I don’t want to be in this position, I know to handle it.”

Vonn did not confirm her Olympic schedule, waiting until she attempts a training run. She was also considered a medal contender in the team combined and super-G events.

“I wish I wasn’t in this position,” she said. “But this is where I am, and I’m going to do the best I can.”