Severe Knee Trauma Confirmed on Jan 30 Vonn ruptured her left anterior cruciate ligament, suffered bone bruising and meniscal damage during a World Cup downhill crash in Switzerland on Jan 30, 2026 [1][2]. The injury is classified as a full ACL tear, a condition that typically requires surgical reconstruction and months of rehabilitation [2]. She disclosed the extent of the damage at a post‑crash press conference, emphasizing the seriousness of the trauma.

Brace‑Clad Workout Video Signals Determination On Feb 3 Vonn uploaded an Instagram Reel showing lunges, squats and other leg exercises while wearing a knee brace, stating “I’m not giving up” and expressing confidence in her knee’s stability [1][2]. She reported minimal swelling and a stable joint, attributing her ability to train to the brace and targeted quad‑hip strengthening [2]. The video, posted less than a week after the injury, underscores her intent to compete at the Milan‑Cortina Games.

Medical Community Divided on Safety Dr. Sean Baran warned that competing with a ruptured ACL and a brace poses “extraordinarily difficult” risks, especially for high‑speed turning and jumping [1]. Conversely, Dr. Catherine Logan noted that elite skiers can rely on quad and hip strength, neuromuscular control and external bracing to ski safely [2]. Dr. Yana Klein cautioned that instability could “blow out” the knee, while Dr. Mia Hagen explained that typical treatment involves surgery and a nine‑to‑twelve‑month rehab period [2].

Training Run and Olympic Downhill Scheduled Olympics.com lists a training run for Vonn on Fri Feb 6, followed by the women’s downhill competition on Sun Feb 8, after a prior session was canceled due to heavy snow [1]. Vonn said she will assess her condition after the Feb 6 run and decide on further participation based on performance and comfort in the brace [1]. The schedule places her on a tight timeline to prove readiness before the Olympic event.

Team Backing Reinforces Olympic Goal Head coach Chris Knight echoed Vonn’s confidence, stating the brace gives her the necessary support for the upcoming race [1]. The broader support team highlighted her resilience and the comprehensive rehabilitation plan implemented since the injury [1]. Vonn’s public statements and the team’s endorsement together signal a committed push toward the 2026 Olympic downhill.