Lindsey Vonn undergoes third surgery after Olympic crash: “Success today has a completely different meaning”

Lindsey Vonn is fighting her way back once again. The American skiing icon shared an emotional update after undergoing her third surgery following a devastating crash at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. “I had my third surgery today and it was successful,” Vonn wrote on Instagram, posting a photo from her hospital bed.

A crash just 13 seconds into her run

Silence fell across the course Sunday when Vonn went down only 13 seconds into her downhill run. The 41-year-old American clipped one of the opening gates and crashed hard, fracturing her tibia in the process.

In the photo she shared, Vonn is lying in a hospital bed, giving a thumbs up. Her right leg is stabilized with a large external fixator, a device doctors use to secure complex fractures and protect the bone after serious surgery.

“Success today has a completely different meaning than it did a few days ago,” Vonn wrote. “I’m making progress and while it is slow, I know I’ll be ok. Thankful for all of the incredible medical staff, friends, family, who have been by my side and the beautiful outpouring of love and support from people around the world.”

The post quickly drew messages of support from fellow athletes including tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff, as well as actor Taylor Lautner.

A courageous return ends in heartbreak

In the same Instagram carousel, bouquets of flowers sent by supporters filled the room. The show of support reflects Vonn’s status as one of the most decorated and beloved athletes in U.S. Winter Olympics history.

Her crash came just a week after she tore the ACL in her left knee while competing in Switzerland. In a remarkable effort to extend her Olympic run, Vonn pushed to compete despite the injury. Instead of a miracle finish, the Games delivered a cruel twist.

“End of her career”

Her father, Alan Kildow, who witnessed the crash alongside Vonn’s sister, told reporters it marked “the end of her career” at age 41.

Even so, Vonn ended her message by turning her focus outward.

“Also, huge congrats to my teammates and all of the Team USA athletes who are out there inspiring me and giving me something to cheer for,” she wrote.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.