The Winter Olympics community have come together to show support for legendary American ski racer Lindsey Vonn, whose campaign ended in heartbreaking fashion after she was injured in a crash during a race over the weekend.
Vonn returned to the Games after more than eight years, having skipped the 2022 Winter Olympics. The 2026 edition had earlier been confirmed as her fifth and final appearance.
The 41-year-old decorated Olympian crashed just 13 seconds into her run. Her right arm hooked on the fourth gate, ruining her momentum. The next thing that happened was her body spinning through the air before she crashed hard onto the snow, unable to get back up.
She had to be airlifted to get the proper medical attention.
Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
Vonn’s presence at the competition was one of the most anticipated, as she carried a compelling comeback story. She had suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament just a week before the start of the quadrennial sporting event.
The Winter Olympics made sure to show their support through a social media post. The Instagram post featured fans expressing their admiration and encouragement for Vonn throughout the ordeal.
“We’re all rooting for you, Lindsey,” the caption reads.
Vonn confirmed in an Instagram post that she suffered a complex tibia fracture and that she will need multiple surgeries. She added that she has no regrets despite not getting what she came for and sent a message of hope to fans.
"I hope if you take away anything from my journey it’s that you all have the courage to dare greatly," she wrote.