Lindsey Vonn Eyes Milan Olympics With Torn ACL, Teammate Defends Move
Lindsey Vonn Eyes Milan Olympics With Torn ACL, Teammate Defends Move
Lindsey Vonn plans to compete in the Milan Cortina Olympics with a torn ACL, as teammates defend the choice and a surgeon explains how it's possible.
Lindsey Vonn is pressing forward with plans to compete in the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics despite a torn ACL, after she completely ruptured the ligament last week at a World Cup race in Switzerland. The five-time Olympian has signaled she intends to race in three events, keeping her sights set on a dramatic comeback in Italy.
Her teammate Breezy Johnson stepped in on social media to defend the decision when fans questioned the move, saying that more athletes have competed without an ACL than people realize. Johnson’s defense underscores the ongoing debate about risk, recovery, and the limits of elite sport when a championship dream is on the line.
Medical insight lends context to Vonn’s choice. A surgeon explained how some elite athletes manage competition with ACL injuries, using bracing, targeted conditioning, and careful monitoring to stay competitive. The explanation centers on balancing performance with safety, especially when games and medals are at stake.
Vonn shared a workout video days after the injury, reaffirming her vow with the caption that she’s not giving up. The Milan Cortina Games will be a test of resolve as she contends for three events, while medical teams evaluate the risks and the long-term implications of continuing to train and compete on an injured ligament. The sports world will be watching closely as the countdown to the Olympics continues.
