As the 2026 Winter Olympics get underway in Milan-Cortina, the narrative has been dominated by Lindsey Vonn’s defiant return to the slopes. Just days after suffering a catastrophic knee injury, the alpine superstar is documenting her rehabilitation.
Her latest social media update, a grueling workout video focused on stabilizing her compromised joint, has drawn widespread attention. Among the notable reactions was a comment from American tennis star Coco Gauff, whose support highlights the cross-sport respect Vonn commands as she attempts a remarkable comeback.
Coco Gauff Acknowledges Lindsey Vonn’s ‘Amazing’ Recovery Process
Vonn’s latest Instagram reel offers an unfiltered look at competing with an ACL that’s not fully functional. In the footage, the 41-year-old is seen performing targeted leg exercises designed to maximize muscular compensation, training her hamstrings to do the job of the torn ligament. The intensity of the recovery process is imminent as she fights to maintain balance and generate power to navigate the treacherous Cortina course at speeds exceeding 70 mph.
The caption of the reel read, “I’m not giving up 💪🏻 working as hard as I can to make it happen! Thank you to my team and everyone for your incredible support. Keep believing 🙏🏻❤️”
Gauff, who very well knows the physical demands of professional competition, left a simple but resonant comment: “amazing,” a sentiment carrying significant weight. Tennis, like alpine skiing, places immense stress on the lower body, requiring explosive lateral movement and joint durability. Gauff’s comment suggests a mutual understanding of the mental fortitude required to train through injury when the stakes are an Olympic medal.
There has been mutual support between these two players as Vonn has previously encouraged Gauff during major tennis tournaments, showcasing the bond between the two stars. By publicly praising Vonn’s effort, Gauff amplifies the magnitude of what the skier is attempting.
Vonn’s Recent Physical Struggles Following Serious Injury
The urgency of Vonn’s preparation stems from a devastating crash on January 30 in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. While competing in a pre-Olympic downhill race, Vonn lost her balance and collided with safety netting, resulting in a complete rupture of the ACL in her left knee: the leg that had previously been considered her healthy one.
In addition to the tear, she sustained significant bone bruising and meniscal damage. For nearly any other athlete, such a diagnosis less than two weeks before the Opening Ceremony would necessitate immediate withdrawal.
However, Vonn has opted for a different path. Citing the stability she still feels due to her muscular strength and the aid of a custom brace, she has declared her intention to race in the women’s downhill scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 8. Her medical team and trainers are currently managing the injury with round-the-clock therapy to reduce swelling and maintain the range of motion.
MORE: Iga Świątek Makes Her Feelings Clear on Lindsey Vonn’s Olympics Message After Injury
Immediately after Vonn’s crash, Gauff and Naomi Osaka prayed for a quick recovery for the 41-year-old, writing, “get well soon,” while Jessica Pegula called her a “warrior” when she announced her return to the Olympics despite injury. The Polish champion Iga Świątek shared an Instagram story, writing, “As long as you fight, you are the winner @lindseyvonn💪🔥”
Vonn has an impressive record throughout her career: eight World Championship medals, Olympic bronze in 2018, and a record-extending 83rd World Cup win last December at 41, the oldest ever. After retiring in 2019 following chronic knee issues, including a 2024 right knee replacement, she roared back last fall to lead downhill standings.
Now, with Milano Cortina underway since Feb. 6, Vonn will be looking to etch her name in history and add another milestone to her already illustrious career.
