Lindsey Vonn breaks silence on crash a week before skiing legend begins Olympics

Lindsey Vonn crashed in the final World Cup downhill in Switzerland and appears to have injured her left knee just over a week before the Olympics. For bettors, expect her odds to lengthen or be listed DNF/withdrawn — avoid backing Vonn to medal; consider markets on non-starts, podiums for other favorites, or head-to-heads where she’s likely to be a liability.

Lindsey Vonn Crash in Switzerland Puts Olympic Dream in Doubt

Lindsey Vonn suffered a high-speed crash in the final World Cup downhill in Switzerland and appears to have injured her left knee, delivering a crushing blow just more than a week before the Opening Ceremonies. The timing raises immediate questions about her ability to take the start at the upcoming Olympics Games.

Vonn’s Statement and Medical Outlook

Vonn posted an update to social media after the race: "I crashed today in the downhill race in Switzerland and injured my left knee. I am discussing the situation with my doctors and team and will continue to undergo further exams." She thanked medical staff for their help and signaled cautious optimism, posting, "My Olympic dream is not over. Thank you for all of the love and support. I will give more information when I have it." She closed with a defiant line: "It's not over until it's over."

How This Affects Her Olympic Chances

The injury comes at brutal timing and makes a start at the Olympics uncertain. Vonn, 41, previously retired after the 2018 Games, underwent a partial right-knee replacement in April 2019 and staged a comeback. While she has shown resilience, a new left-knee injury so close to the Games substantially reduces the likelihood she will compete for a medal.

Impact on the Women’s Downhill Field

Vonn’s potential withdrawal reshapes the competitive landscape. Other contenders will move up the favorite list, and teams may reassess race-day strategies without the American veteran in the mix. The incident boosts chances for rising stars and established racers who were previously chasing Vonn’s podium presence.

Betting Implications for Punters

Punters should expect Vonn’s odds to drift or be edited to reflect a likely DNF/withdrawal. Avoid backing her in outright and medal markets until medical assessments are clear.

Consider alternative plays: non-start/withdrawal markets, futures that favor other top contenders, or head-to-head matchups where Vonn’s participation is uncertain.

In-play and late-line markets will likely offer clearer value once the team confirms her status.

Background and Legacy

Vonn’s comeback story has been one of perseverance — returning after retirement and major knee surgery. Regardless of the immediate Olympic outcome, the crash underscores the physical toll of elite alpine racing and leaves open the possibility of another dramatic comeback should her medical team clear her to compete.

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