Lindsey Vonn says Olympic injury ‘more severe’ than broken leg – American alpine skiing legend Lindsey Vonn has offered a profoundly personal and depressing update after suffering a major injury during the women’s downhill event at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. The 41-year-old, one of the most decorated skiers in history, said that her injuries were far more serious than what most people would expect from the words “broken leg.” Lindsey Vonn says Olympic injury ‘more severe’ than broken leg
Vonn, who went back to the United States this week after many days in Italian hospitals, released a touching video on social media showing the terrible journey home — from intensive care, into an ambulance, onto a plane, and then back into another ambulance at a U.S. hospital. Lying in a hospital bed, she provided fans both an open and emotional glimpse at what she’s undergone. Lindsey Vonn says Olympic injury ‘more severe’ than broken leg
“My leg is still in pieces… but I’m finally HOME!” Vonn wrote.
“My injury was a lot more severe than just a broken leg. I’m still putting my head around it — what it means and the road ahead… but I’m going to offer you more detail in the coming days.”
A Complex Injury, Not Just a Simple Break
Medical findings show Vonn suffered a complicated tibia fracture — meaning the bone in her lower leg was fragmented in numerous places and accompanying soft tissues were likely affected. Such injuries can be significantly more complicated than a conventional break and often require numerous operations, long periods of immobilization, and extensive rehabilitation. Lindsey Vonn says Olympic injury ‘more severe’ than broken leg
Already, Vonn endured four surgeries in Italy to begin stabilizing and mending her leg. Even with the tremendous care, she’s still unable to stand and anticipates future procedures to remove medical apparatus and continue the healing process.
One piece of medical equipment in particular — an external stabilizing device known as an X-fix — reveals just how severe her injury is. Vonn said she’s looking forward to the day that can be removed so she can finally begin moving again.
Beyond the Physical Injury
Vonn has been refreshingly honest about not only the physical suffering, but the emotional weight of the rehabilitation ahead — a journey she described as “slow” and something she’s still trying to completely absorb. She also made time to express sincere gratitude for the medical staff, her fans, family and friends who have been with her during the trauma. Lindsey Vonn says Olympic injury ‘more severe’ than broken leg
Despite the dire conditions, she hinted at perseverance and hope:
“I will always take the risk of crashing while giving it my all, rather than not ski to my potential and have regret. I never want to cross the finish line and say, ‘what if?’ ”That mindset — a mixture of perseverance, introspection, and thankfulness — has defined her career and now her recovery, as fans and fellow athletes around the world have rallied behind her with support and well-wishes. Lindsey Vonn says Olympic injury ‘more severe’ than broken leg
A Tough Road Ahead
For an athlete who has battled injuries throughout her life and career, this recent setback is another hurdle. It comes weeks after she already competed with a torn ACL — a testament to her tremendous competitive spirit and desire to leave anything behind on the Olympic stage.
There’s no set timescale yet for Vonn’s full recovery, but her transparency and positivity in the face of such a traumatic situation have resonated worldwide, reminding many that behind the medals, records, and fame is someone fighting very genuine suffering, uncertainty, and hope. Lindsey Vonn says Olympic injury ‘more severe’ than broken leg
About the Author
