Lindsey Vonn may face an extended recovery period following a serious crash at the Winter Olympics, as suggested by a specialist surgeon in France. The expert also mentioned that the repercussions of the injury could be long-lasting.
The American skiing icon was airlifted to a hospital in Treviso after a high-speed mishap during the women’s downhill event, just 13 seconds into the race. Vonn lost control, collided with a gate, and tumbled onto the slope in Cortina.
Following initial treatment, she underwent three surgeries for a “complex tibia fracture.” Despite some progress in her rehabilitation, Vonn still confronts challenges, including the potential risk of amputation, as noted by orthopaedic specialist Dr. Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet from Lyon, France.
Dr. Sonnery-Cottet mentioned to RMC Sport that the recovery timeline is uncertain, and it might take months for Vonn to regain normal walking abilities. He emphasized the importance of preserving her leg functionality as the primary goal before considering a return to high-level skiing.
Furthermore, the surgeon cautioned that Vonn could encounter lifelong difficulties, even without amputation. The post-surgery updates on Vonn’s Instagram revealed that while the procedures were somewhat successful, the external fixator in her left leg indicates an incomplete fracture repair, suggesting ongoing challenges for months or even permanent consequences.
Despite the setbacks, Vonn clarified that her leg fracture was unrelated to a previously torn ACL and shared her disappointment with how her Olympic journey concluded. She acknowledged the inherent risks in ski racing and life’s unpredictable nature, encouraging others to embrace challenges and take chances without fear of failure.
Vonn’s message resonated with determination and resilience, urging everyone to dare greatly and seize opportunities without hesitation, emphasizing that the true defeat lies in never trying at all.