Winter Olympics 2026: Lindsey Vonn makes it back to United States after horrific crash, multiple surgeries in Italy

Lindsey Vonn has returned to the United States after suffering a severe crash during the downhill event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Following the incident, she underwent multiple surgeries in Italy, including a third surgery on her fractured leg. Vonn shared a photo from her hospital bed, expressing optimism about her recovery, stating, "I'll be OK" (Yahoo Sports). The crash was described as horrific, leading to significant injuries that required extensive medical attention. Vonn was initially preparing to fly back to the U.S. on Sunday, indicating that her recovery process was underway, albeit slow (ESPN, CBS News). She has been seen in a large leg brace as part of her recovery efforts (Yahoo Sports). Despite the challenges she faces, Vonn remains positive about her progress. She has publicly acknowledged the difficulties of her situation but is focused on rehabilitation and returning to her athletic pursuits. The incident has drawn attention not only due to her status as a prominent athlete but also because of the nature of the injuries sustained during the Olympic competition (CBS News, Yahoo Sports). As Vonn continues her recovery journey, she has garnered support from fans and fellow athletes, highlighting the community's concern for her well-being following such a traumatic event.