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American Alpine Skiing legend Lindsey Vonn is facing criticism for coming out of retirement to resume her skiing endeavors at the age of 40. Vonn is one of the most decorated winter athletes in history, boasting three Olympic medals and eight World Championship medals (including two gold, three silver, and three bronze). She also once held the world record for the most World Cup race wins (82) before her record was surpassed by her compatriot, Mikaela Shiffrin.
Following a storied career, Vonn announced her retirement in February 2019. However, last year she decided to return to the snowy slopes after a six-year hiatus, only to be met with criticism. Speaking about the backlash, here is what Vonn said—read on to explore her side of the story.
Lindsey Vonn’s candid interview: Defying age and critics on the slopes
Lindsey Vonn opened up about the waves of criticism she has faced since announcing her comeback. Critics have questioned her decision to return, pointing to her extensive history of crashes and injuries as reasons why her renewed foray into competitive skiing might be risky. Some prominent voices in the skiing world have even suggested that her comeback was a misguided decision. However, Vonn remains resolute in her determination to continue doing what she loves.
During the interview, Vonn explained that while the doubts and critiques were plenty, her passion for the sport continues to burn as brightly as ever. She emphasized that advancements in sports medicine and improved recovery regimes have allowed her to manage her physical condition much better than before. Vonn highlighted that modern training methods and better medical support play a significant role in her ability to perform at a high level, even at 40. She also drew comparisons with other elite athletes such as Tom Brady, Lewis Hamilton, and Serena Williams, who have all excelled in their respective fields well beyond their 40s.
Reflecting on her personal experience, Vonn stated,
"I don’t feel like I’m 40. I think if you would have asked this question a year and a half ago or a year ago, I would have said, ‘Yeah, I feel really old.’ But with my knee I feel so much better. And it’s possible. Anything is possible." (via The AP)
Her words resonate with a deep-seated belief that age should never be a barrier to pursuing one’s passion. Vonn’s inspiring journey back to competitive skiing is not only a testament to her personal strength and resilience but also a challenge to conventional perceptions about aging in sports. As she continues to defy expectations, her comeback serves as an empowering reminder that with the right support and determination, athletes can continue to achieve greatness regardless of their age.
