Lindsey Vonn opens up about the emotional journey back to the podium after coming out of retirement.

Just over a month ago, Lindsey Vonn made history by finishing second in a World Cup super-G race in Idaho, becoming the oldest female Alpine skier to reach the podium—by six years. It marked a powerful end to her comeback season.

Vonn, who retired in 2019, returned to competition after a partial knee replacement at age 40. Her inspiring performance has reignited Olympic ambitions, with eyes now set on the 2026 Winter Games in Milan-Cortina.

Appearing at the Laureus World Sports Awards with Eileen Gu and Maria Höfl-Riesch, Vonn reflected on the emotional toll and immense challenge of returning to elite form after years away from the sport.