Lindsey Vonn crashes early in Olympic downhill, taken off mountain in helicopter

Lindsey Vonn, a legendary American skier, faced a devastating crash during the Olympic downhill race in Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy. Despite racing with a badly injured left knee, Vonn lost control on the opening traverse, causing her to spin in the air before landing on the snow in agony. The 41-year-old athlete was heard screaming out in pain as medical personnel rushed to her aid.

The severity of Vonn’s injuries led to her being airlifted off the course by a helicopter, potentially marking the end of her illustrious career. With her father, Alan Kildow, and other family members watching from the stands, the atmosphere was tense as Vonn received medical treatment on the snow. Even celebrities like Snoop Dogg were in attendance, witnessing the unfortunate turn of events for the beloved skier.

Vonn’s comeback to elite ski racing last season was nothing short of remarkable, especially considering her age and the titanium knee replacement she underwent in her right knee. Despite facing numerous challenges, Vonn defied the odds and emerged as a strong contender in the World Cup downhill standings. Her gold-medal aspirations were dashed by a previous knee injury sustained in Switzerland, which included a ruptured ACL, bone bruise, and meniscus damage.

The ski racing community is left in shock and disbelief at Vonn’s crash, as she was a beacon of inspiration for many. Her determination and resilience on the slopes have captivated audiences worldwide, making her a true icon in the sport. As Vonn’s future hangs in the balance, fans and fellow athletes can only hope for a swift recovery and a possible return to the slopes in the future.

For more updates on the Olympics, visit the AP Olympics hub at https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics.