Olympic champion Lindsey Vonn shared a video update from her hospital bed in Italy, thanking supporters and outlining the difficult recovery ahead after a violent crash during the downhill at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Vonn posted the message to social media Friday from Treviso, where doctors have treated her for a complex fracture of the left tibia sustained seconds into her race. She told viewers she feels grateful for the support she has received, but acknowledged the physical and emotional toll of the injury.
“It’s been a hard few days, but I’m starting to feel more like myself,” Vonn said in the video. She added that she faces additional surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation.
The update offers the clearest picture yet of the extent of the injury and the uncertain timeline for recovery after the crash ended her Olympic comeback.
Olympic Crash Injury and Surgery Timeline
Medical teams airlifted Vonn from the course after she fell early in the women’s downhill final. Doctors performed emergency surgery in Italy and later completed additional procedures to stabilize the fracture, according to ESPN.
Vonn said she expects at least one more surgery before she can travel home and another procedure once she returns to the United States. Physicians continue to evaluate imaging to determine the full scope of treatment, she said.
The injury followed another setback. Vonn disclosed she had ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in the same leg days before the downhill event but chose to compete. USA Today reported that the decision reflected her determination to complete a high-profile Olympic return after stepping away from competition in previous years.
Despite the severity of the injury, Vonn said medical staff have been encouraged by her progress. She expressed appreciation for doctors, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists overseeing her care.
Lindsey Vonn’s Recovery Outlook and Message to Fans
In the video, Vonn focused on gratitude and resilience. She thanked fans for sending letters, flowers, and gifts, saying the messages have lifted her spirits during a difficult stretch in the hospital. She also offered encouragement to fellow U.S. athletes still competing at the Games.
“I’m cheering for Team USA,” she said, adding that watching events has helped her stay connected to the Olympic atmosphere.
CNN reported that Vonn hopes to travel home once doctors determine she can safely make the trip. She said her immediate goal is to complete surgery and begin rehabilitation, a process that could take months.
Vonn’s decorated career includes three Olympic medals and a record 82 World Cup race victories. While the crash halted her latest Olympic appearance, her message emphasized determination rather than disappointment.
She told fans she understands the recovery will be long but remains optimistic about healing and returning to normal life.
