Around twenty curious people were at the bottom of the Birds of Prey on Wednesday. So no, the first practice of the descent of Beaver Creek did not really interest them, and even less to know how these ladies were going to ski on a demanding slope which is usually reserved for gentlemen. Their interest was to see Lindsey Vonn in person and perhaps snag a photo with the champion who announced her return to action, almost six years after putting away her skis. Or so we thought.
But the skier with 82 World Cup victories, now in her forties, was in the starting gate. Not yet as an athlete, that won’t be long, but as a luxury opener. The American is continuing her plan which should, normally, lead her to the World Cup, and more precisely to the Corviglia track in Saint-Moritz next week for two super-Gs. Interview.
Lindsey Vonn, how did you experience this return to a World Cup track?
It felt like everything was normal. Being able to ski such a round after so long without competition was strange but also very stimulating. I made some good turns, but sometimes I was a little restrained. Despite everything, I felt really good. Being at the reconnaissance with the girls, getting back into the rhythm of a race, everything seemed in place.
It was also your first experience as an usher…
I was keen to play my role. For example, Jackie (editor’s note: Jacqueline Wiles) had number 3 and I wanted to make sure she had all the necessary information, because the track was much easier than what we observed during the reconnaissance. The goal was to provide an accurate report so that the girls were well prepared. It’s a different but rewarding role.
Was it strange to find yourself an usher, after your impressive career?
I didn’t find this strange, but rather natural, given the progress I’m making. Of course, I would have preferred to be competing here. However, I take things step by step. This progression is essential to return to the best level and I only remember positive elements from this experience.
Do you have an idea of your time? Are you in on this?
We will analyze all this on video. That said, I’m on the right track. I follow my plan, which is going better than I had originally imagined. I’ve only skied nine downhill days and ten super-G days in the last six years, so it’s a rapid progression. I enjoy every moment.
What are your expectations for your return to competition?
I have high expectations, maybe even higher than anyone. However, I have to learn to be patient, which is a challenge for me. I know full well that I’m not going to immediately win a race when I return to the World Cup. In training, some days I perform well, and others I am overwhelmed. I’m close to a solid return, but I ask for a little patience, from myself and the public. I won’t have to question everything and remind myself that I no longer have a kneecap when I don’t win a race.
We know your love for Cortina d’Ampezzo, where you achieved 12 successes in your career. We imagine that participating in the Olympic Games in 2026, in your favorite resort, is a concrete objective?
When I retired, I was disappointed in two things: not having managed to achieve 86 World Cup victories (editor’s note: at the time, the record for victories was held by Ingemar Stenmark who has since been surpassed by Mikaela Shiffrin’s 99 triumphs) and not being able to ski in Cortina for the Games. This place is special to me. I made my first podium there, I achieved a historic record of victories there, all this is linked. But I have to stay focused on the present. I build my return step by step. We’ll see where this path takes me because no one has taken it before.
Speaking of the present, will you be in St. Moritz next week for the World Cup?
It’s still to be decided. We will analyze the videos of the descents. Physically, I feel good, but I remain cautious. I will make a decision in the coming days.
Johan Tachet, Beaver Creek
