Lindsey Vonn Claims 83rd World Cup Victory at St. Moritz

Lindsey Vonn showcased her remarkable skills by winning the downhill race at the FIS World Cup in St. Moritz on December 8, 2023. The former Olympic champion clocked an impressive time of 1:29.63, finishing almost a full second ahead of her competitors. This victory marks Vonn’s 83rd World Cup win, further solidifying her legacy as one of the sport’s greatest athletes.

Vonn, who started 16th in the lineup, demonstrated exceptional control and speed, particularly in the middle portion of the course. Her performance was not only dominant but also highlighted her physical preparation. The next closest competitor, Magdalena Egger from Austria, finished with a time of 1:30.61, placing her 0.98 seconds behind Vonn. Meanwhile, Mirjam Puchner, also from Austria, secured third place, finishing 1.16 seconds off Vonn’s pace.

Vonn’s Preparations Pay Off

In the lead-up to the St. Moritz race, Vonn expressed confidence in her physical state, stating that she felt better than she had in years. During a press conference earlier in the week, she mentioned that she had gained 12 pounds of muscle during the off-season, attributing part of her success to the guidance of Norwegian downhill star Aksel Lund Svindal. Vonn remarked, “I’m physically in possibly the best shape I’ve ever been in. I think I probably feel better now than when I tore my ACL the first time in 2013.”

Vonn’s latest triumph is her 44th downhill victory, placing her third on the all-time World Cup wins list, trailing only behind Ingemar Stenmark with 86 wins and Mikaela Shiffrin, who leads with 104 victories. This achievement not only underscores her prowess in the sport but also her ability to compete at a high level even at the age of 41.

As the season progresses, fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see if Vonn can continue this remarkable form. The St. Moritz race, being the first downhill event of the season, sets a promising tone for her future races. With her determination and skill, Lindsey Vonn remains a formidable presence in the world of alpine skiing.