Lindsey Vonn Defends Olympics Spot Amid Injury

Olympian responds to critics who questioned her participation despite ruptured ACL and broken leg.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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American Olympian Lindsey Vonn fired back at critics who questioned her taking a spot on Team USA for the Milan Cortina Olympics despite suffering a ruptured ACL and later breaking her leg during the women's downhill event. Vonn, who is recovering from multiple surgeries, said her push for an Olympics appearance at age 41 'wasn't all for nothing' and that she 'came back' and 'showed up and did what most thought was impossible at my age with a partial knee replacement'.

Why it matters

Vonn's defense highlights the intense scrutiny and criticism Olympic athletes can face, especially when dealing with major injuries. Her determination to compete despite the odds showcases the passion and drive of elite athletes, even in the face of setbacks.

The details

Vonn suffered a ruptured ACL and later broke her leg during the women's downhill event at the Milan Cortina Olympics. She was transported back to the U.S. last week and is recovering from multiple surgeries. Despite the devastating injuries, Vonn said her Olympic appearance 'wasn't all for nothing' and that she 'came back' and 'showed up and did what most thought was impossible at my age with a partial knee replacement'.

  • Vonn suffered the ruptured ACL and broken leg during the women's downhill event early in the Milan Cortina Olympics.
  • Vonn was transported back to the U.S. last week.

The players

Lindsey Vonn

A 41-year-old American Olympian who competed in the Milan Cortina Olympics despite suffering a ruptured ACL and later breaking her leg during the women's downhill event.

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What they’re saying

“It was everything. And it wasn't a dream… although sitting in this hospital bed it seems far away now…”

— Lindsey Vonn (Instagram)

“One thing that stung was when people said I was selfish and should give my Olympic spot to someone else.”

— Lindsey Vonn (Instagram)

“It's not impossible until it's done. I didn't reach my ultimate goal…. But I still did a lot.”

— Lindsey Vonn (Instagram)

The takeaway

Vonn's determination to compete at the Olympics despite her devastating injuries showcases the passion and resilience of elite athletes. Her defense against critics who questioned her spot on Team USA highlights the intense scrutiny Olympians can face, even when dealing with major setbacks.