Winter Olympics 2026 medal count: Team USA sits at zero after Day 1's close call in snowboarding

During the 2026 Winter Olympics, Team USA secured its first medal when Breezy Johnson won the gold medal in the women's downhill event. This victory marked a significant achievement for the U.S. team early in the competition, as reported by multiple sources including Yahoo Sports and NPR. Johnson's win was celebrated as a highlight of the Games, showcasing her skill and determination in a highly competitive environment. Lindsey Vonn, a renowned U.S. ski star, faced a challenging situation during the Olympics. She had previously announced that she ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her left knee following a crash during a World Cup downhill event the week before the Olympics. Despite her injury being described as "100% gone," Vonn completed her second training run at the Olympics, demonstrating her determination to compete in the Olympic downhill competition (Japan Times, Yahoo Sports). However, Vonn's Olympic journey took a dramatic turn when she crashed out of the Women’s Downhill final. The crash occurred near the top of the Olympia delle Tofane course, leading to her being airlifted off the slopes. This incident overshadowed Johnson's victory and raised concerns about the future of Vonn's skiing career (France24, AP News). Reports indicated that Vonn's crash highlighted the unpredictable nature of competitive skiing and the risks that athletes take in pursuit of their goals. Vonn's participation in the Olympics was viewed as a testament to her resilience and competitive spirit, even in the face of severe physical challenges. Despite her hopes for a medal, the crash ultimately dashed her Olympic aspirations. The dramatic events during the race underscored the intensity of Olympic competition, particularly in high-stakes events like downhill skiing.