Lindsey Vonn still hospitalized, has yet another leg surgery - ESPN
ESPN
February 20, 2026
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Lindsey Vonn remains hospitalized following a recent surgery on her severely broken left leg, which required over six hours to complete and involved multiple plates and screws. The four-time Olympic medalist returned home to the United States last weekend after spending a week in Italy undergoing treatment and at least four surgeries for a complex tibia fracture sustained during a crash at the Milan Cortina Olympics. Vonn shared updates on her Instagram and X accounts, revealing her ongoing struggles with recovery and expressing gratitude for support during this challenging time.
Vonn’s injury occurred early in her downhill race when she got hooked on a gate 13 seconds into her run, leading to a severe spinning crash that sent her sliding down the mountain. The incident raised concerns about skiing safety, particularly because her skis did not release during the fall, which may have contributed to the severity of her injury. Despite undergoing extensive medical treatment in Italy, Vonn’s recovery process has been slow and complex, requiring multiple surgeries and a lengthy hospital stay.
The 41-year-old athlete had already been competing with significant physical challenges, including a torn ACL in her left knee and a partial titanium replacement in her right knee. Her resilience in attempting to secure another Olympic medal despite these injuries highlights her dedication to the sport. However, this latest setback underscores the risks and physical demands of elite skiing. Vonn’s story is not only a testament to her perseverance but also serves as an important reminder of the need for continued advancements in safety measures within the skiing community.
For sports fans, Vonn’s journey is a compelling narrative of both triumph and struggle. Her ability to push through immense pain and continue competing at such a high level makes her an inspiration, even as she faces significant challenges in her recovery. As one of the most decorated female athletes in U.S. history, Vonn’s latest setback adds another layer to her already remarkable story, emphasizing the grueling nature of elite sports and the importance of physical resilience.
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Originally published on ESPN on 2/20/2026