Lindsey Vonn Reveals Amputation Scare After Crash

Legendary skier says surgery saved her leg after terrifying Olympic downhill accident.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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In a shocking revelation, American skiing icon Lindsey Vonn has disclosed that she nearly lost her left leg following a severe crash during the women's downhill event at the recent Milan Cortina Olympics. Vonn says she required emergency surgery to save her limb from amputation after the frightening incident on the slopes.

Why it matters

Vonn's career-threatening injury highlights the immense physical risks and dangers that elite winter sports athletes face, even at the pinnacle of their careers. Her recovery and ability to continue competing will be closely watched by fans and the skiing community.

The details

According to Vonn, the crash resulted in extensive damage to her leg that required immediate surgical intervention to prevent amputation. The legendary skier credits the quick actions of the medical team on site for saving her limb and potentially her career.

  • Vonn's crash occurred during the women's downhill event at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics.

The players

Lindsey Vonn

A former American World Cup alpine ski racer who is considered one of the greatest female ski racers of all time, with 82 World Cup race wins.

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What they’re saying

“I'm just grateful to be alive and that I still have my leg. The doctors said if I hadn't had surgery right away, they would have had to amputate. It was that serious.”

— Lindsey Vonn (Times Daily)

What’s next

Vonn is expected to undergo extensive rehabilitation in the coming months as she works to recover from the injury and determine if she will be able to continue her storied skiing career.

The takeaway

Vonn's harrowing experience serves as a sobering reminder of the immense physical risks and sacrifices elite winter sports athletes make in pursuit of greatness. Her recovery will be closely watched as a testament to the strength and resilience of one of the all-time greats.