Lindsey Vonn defies doctors to race with torn ACL in Cortina showdown
Lindsey Vonn is set to race in Sunday's downhill event in Cortina d'Ampezzo, despite suffering multiple knee injuries in a recent crash. The four-time World Cup winner faces severe pain and long-term risks, yet she remains determined to compete. Weather conditions for the race are expected to be ideal, but her participation still hinges on a final training run.
Vonn's injuries from the crash in Crans-Montana include a torn ACL, meniscus damage, and a bone bruise in her left knee. Doctors warn that skiing in this condition could lead to severe bleeding, swelling, and further damage. Artur Trost, a trauma surgeon, has advised against her racing due to the long-term health risks involved.
Skiing with a torn ACL is technically possible if the surrounding muscles and structures are strong enough. However, no professional racer has ever consistently achieved top-10 World Cup finishes with an untreated double ACL tear. Swiss skier Joana Hählen, for example, competed for over three years with torn ACLs in both knees—but she avoided surgery and did not maintain elite-level results.
Vonn's decision to race comes despite medical warnings. Her final call will depend on whether she can safely complete a training run before Sunday.
If Vonn competes, she will do so against strong medical advice and with significant physical risks. The race in Cortina d'Ampezzo could mark one of her most challenging performances yet. Her participation remains uncertain until she completes her final training assessment.
