Lindsey Vonn: Comeback, Instagram, “Did Win Today,” and the Knee Replacement That Changed Her Career

American alpine skiing legend Lindsey Vonn has done the unthinkable — returning to elite competition after a knee replacement and winning a major World Cup downhill race at age 41. Her journey from retirement, through surgery and intensive rehab, to an emotional victory on the World Cup circuit is one of the most inspiring stories in modern sports.

On December 12, 2025, Vonn secured a historic victory in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup downhill race in St. Moritz, Switzerland — marking her first win since 2018 and making her the oldest skier ever to win a World Cup event. 

This article explores her comeback in depth — from her Instagram activity and social reaction to her knee replacement, training, and goals for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

A Legendary Comeback Begins

Vonn initially retired in 2019 as one of the most successful female alpine skiers in history, with 82 World Cup victories and multiple Olympic medals. Her retirement was driven largely by the physical toll of repeated injuries — especially to her right knee. 

However, in April 2024, she underwent a partial knee replacement surgery, a decision that ultimately revitalized her career and changed her life. After years of pain and limitations, the surgery allowed her to train pain-free and consider a return to competitive skiing. 

Vonn herself has said that for the first time in years, her body was cooperating with her goals — enabling her not just to enjoy life, but to race again. 

Instagram & Social Media: Fans React to Comeback Teasers

Lindsey Vonn’s Instagram has been a central platform where fans first speculated about her comeback. Early posts showing her back on snow, training and testing equipment with a new coach sparked a wave of excitement online. 

Vonn’s social media reflects both her competitive drive and her joy at reclaiming the slopes. Her followers — from long-time skiing fans to newer supporters — have watched every training session, behind-the-scenes moment, and inspiring message of resilience.

 The Knee Replacement That Made It Possible

Unlike most elite athletes who endure years of chronic injury, Vonn made a bold decision to undergo partial knee replacement surgery — a procedure rarely associated with returning to the highest levels of sport.

Post-surgery, she completed months of physical therapy and gradually progressed from basic mobility exercises to on-snow training. This preparation was crucial, as she needed not just strength but confidence in her newly reconstructed knee before racing again.

Her physical transformation — adding strength, conditioning, and muscle mass — was widely reported as a key factor in her comeback readiness. 

“Did Win Today?” — Historic Victory in St. Moritz

The answer: YES. Lindsey Vonn won today.

On December 12, 2025, Lindsey Vonn dominated the women’s downhill race at the St. Moritz World Cup — her first World Cup victory in nearly eight years and her 83rd career win. 

Why This Win Matters

• Historic Age Milestone: At 41, she became the oldest skier (male or female) to win a World Cup event — breaking a record previously held by Didier Cuche (37) and Federica Brignone (34).

• First Top Finish Post-Surgery: This victory came after incremental improvements in her comeback season, including podium placements and strong training performances. 

• Olympic Momentum: With the 2026 Winter Olympics approaching, this win not only boosts her confidence but also positions her as a top contender in downhill and Super-G events.

Training, Coaching, and Preparation

Vonn’s comeback was not spontaneous. It was methodical and backed by professional guidance. She enlisted Norwegian skiing legend Aksel Lund Svindal as her coach and equipment strategist — a move that added technical edge to her training. 

She also trained internationally — including sessions in Chile and New Zealand — working alongside elite athletes and integrating world-class conditioning programs. 

Her Instagram and public posts showed intense workouts, ski drills, and time on snow — all part of a long-term plan to return stronger than before.

From Mid-Pack Finishes to Podiums

In her first races after returning from retirement and surgery, Vonn’s results were modest by her own legendary standards — finishing 24th in early events and gradually climbing. 

But she didn’t stop there. Over time:

• She earned World Cup podium finishes, including a second place finish at the Sun Valley World Cup event. 

• She proved she could compete with younger athletes and still deliver top-tier performances.

This steady progression was vital — showing that the comeback wasn’t just symbolic, it was competitive.

Mindset and Motivation

Vonn’s journey back to World Cup racing wasn’t easy. There were doubts, aches, and skepticism — both from the public and within the media.

But Vonn’s mindset has been consistently resilient. She’s publicly embraced challenges, focusing more on personal growth and present progress than on comparisons to her earlier career.

She often emphasizes that the comeback was about embracing the opportunity rather than proving anything to others. 

What Fans Are Saying on Instagram

Fans and fellow athletes have poured admiration and support into Vonn’s Instagram posts — celebrating her not just for racing, but for inspiring people of all ages to push boundaries.

Comments range from:

• “You show age is just a number”

• “Legend doesn’t even begin to describe you”

• “This is the comeback of the century”

The emotional and motivational impact of her journey goes beyond skiing, resonating with anyone facing challenges — athletic or otherwise.

What’s Next for Lindsey Vonn?

Vonn has openly stated her focus on the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Italy — a stage where she hopes to compete one final time at the highest level.

Her performance this season — particularly the St. Moritz victory — positions her well for selection to Team USA and perhaps an inspiring Olympic run.

At 41 years old, Vonn isn’t just competing — she’s redefining what longevity and resilience mean in elite sport.

FAQ — Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback Explained

Q1: Did Lindsey Vonn win a race today?
Yes — on December 12, 2025, Lindsey Vonn won the women’s downhill race at the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup in St. Moritz, marking her first World Cup win since 2018 and the oldest winner ever. 

Q2: Why did Lindsey Vonn retire originally?
Vonn retired in 2019 due to chronic injury pain, especially in her right knee after years of competitive racing. 

Q3: What knee surgery did Lindsey Vonn have?
She underwent a partial knee replacement surgery in April 2024 — a key step that allowed her to return to training and elite competition. 

Q4: Is Lindsey Vonn on Instagram?
Yes, she regularly posts updates on her comeback journey, training progress, and life — helping fans follow her return intimately.

Q5: Is she planning to race in the 2026 Olympics?
Yes — her recent performances and St. Moritz win strengthen her prospects for representing the USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Q6: How has the skiing world reacted?
Fans and competitors alike have celebrated her resilience and historic achievements, with social media buzzing after her victories and comeback updates.

Final Takeaway

Lindsey Vonn’s comeback isn’t just about winning a ski race — it’s about rewriting possibility. To return from a knee replacement, at age 41, after years of physical strain and retirement, and to win at the highest level — that’s a legacy-defining story in sport.

Her Instagram updates, speeches, and public appearances reflect both a champion’s heart and a deeply human journey — inspiring audiences worldwide.