The mindset surrounding the legendary skier's Olympic return have changed so profoundly that a top-three result now comes with a tinge of frustration.
The four-time Olympian clinched the bronze position in Saturday's women's World Cup downhill, continuing a remarkable start to the season that has now featured a victory and a runner-up finish in the span of nine days. However, a slight misjudgment on the lower section of the challenging course proved costly, leaving Vonn believing gold was within reach.
A Clean Run Claims Gold for Huetter
The Austrian contender delivered a flawless performance to claim her first World Cup victory this season, clocking a time of 1:41.54. Second-place finisher Weidle-Winkelmann took silver, trailing by over a quarter-second, while Vonn finished just over a third of a second back.
“A year ago, if you'd questioned me, my response was absolutely thrilled with a podium,” Vonn commented. “But now I know I’m fast. When you make little mistakes separate first from third.”
Astonishing Career Resurgence
This performance marks Vonn's third top-three finish in her four starts this season and the 141st of her legendary career. This is an remarkable feat for an competitor who came back last season after a long break from the sport. One year ago, she did not finish in the top three in her comeback tour; today, she heads the season-long downhill standings with 240 points.
The Austrian's Form
Last season's title holder, was consistently quicker than Vonn after the opening split and reached speeds of 126kph (78mph). The 33-year-old Austrian now owns five wins in the speed discipline and is becoming a prime candidate for the Olympic downhill title on 8 February.
2018 Olympic gold medalist Goggia, widely viewed as Huetter's biggest threat, suffered a significant setback. Leading at the mid-point, the PyeongChang gold medalist was pushed into a defensive position while adjusting her line negotiating a bend and slid off the optimal line, ending up in eighth place, significantly back.
Upward Trend Ahead of the Games
For Vonn, the overall narrative remains extremely promising. Since receiving a medical intervention in her injured joint, she has rediscovered both speed and belief, capped by her triumphant return to the top step last weekend. With under two months until the flame is lit in Milan-Cortina, she is confident her path is on course.
“I am anticipating recharging a bit,” Vonn said. “I know I’ll be ready.”
The tour takes a festive break after the super-G race in Val d'Isère, with alpine racing scheduled for January.
