Lindsey Vonn's 2026 Olympic bid came to unfortunate end over the weekend, but the three-time medalist is still thankful for this chapter in her journey.
The ski racing legend came out of retirement to participate in this year's games and refused to let a torn ACL stop her from attempting to bring the gold back to the States. However, a frightening crash just seconds into her downhill event left her with a broken leg and an airlift back to a local hospital.
Vonn's gutsy attempt earned the respect of all of her peers and fans alike. And on Monday the 41-year-old sent out a response to her first well-wisher on social media.
© Eric Bolte-Imagn Images.
Lindsey Vonn posts thank you message after scary Olympic crash
Taking to X early this morning, Vonn thanked British sports commentator Dan Walker who put out a lengthy statement applauding her resilience.
"Thank you Dan 🙏🏻" Vonn said.
According to the Italian hospital she was admitted to, Lindsey suffered "a nasty fall" but has since undergone surgery and is in stable condition.
"Diagnostic tests were performed and a decision was made to transfer her to Ca' Foncello Hospital in Treviso. The American athlete was admitted to the hospital and taken care of by a multidisciplinary team. This afternoon, she underwent orthopedic surgery to stabilize the fracture in her left leg," the hospital shared Sunday.
U.S. Ski Team releases statement on Vonn injury
Per the Associated Press, United States Skiing has put out a statement in the aftermath of Lindsey's injury — giving fans an update on her condition and the road back after her "brutal" crash.
“She’ll be OK, but it’s going to be a bit of a process,” said Anouk Patty, chief of sport for U.S. Ski and Snowboard. “This sport’s brutal and people need to remember when they’re watching [that] these athletes are throwing themselves down a mountain and going really, really fast.”
We certainly wish Vonn the best in her recovery and rehab and salute the heroic effort it took to even attempt to go down the mountain again. Get well soon, Lindsey!