Winter Olympics icon Lindsey Vonn demonstrated unwavering support for Team USA despite a harrowing crash during the event. Her teammate, Breezy Johnson, disclosed that Vonn cheered her on from a helicopter after being airlifted following the downhill mishap in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
At 41 years old, Vonn was making her Winter Olympics return after a hiatus and skipping the 2022 Games. Unfortunately, her comeback was marred by a disastrous incident where she collided with a flag marker on the course, leading to her being tossed into the air.
The severity of Vonn’s fall was amplified by her recent revelation of a “completely ruptured” ACL in her left knee just a week before the Games. While some questioned the decision to allow her to compete in what could be her final Olympics, others lauded her resilience and bravery.
Johnson, 30, who had already completed her run before Vonn’s crash, shared that Vonn was celebrating her achievements despite the circumstances. Johnson’s stellar performance secured her the gold medal, edging out Germany’s Emma Aicher by a mere 0.04 seconds and marking her first Olympic podium finish.
Vonn’s distressing cries at the scene evoked an emotional response from BBC commentator Chemmy Alcott, while Johnson reciprocated Vonn’s support by sending her heartfelt wishes for a swift recovery and acknowledging her remarkable career accomplishments.
In a separate event, Johnson had a standout moment at the 2025 Alpine World Ski Championships, clinching her first world titles in downhill and team combined events. After missing out on the 2022 Winter Olympics due to injury, Johnson made a triumphant return, securing victory with Vonn’s encouragement from a distance.
Defending Vonn’s decision to compete despite her injury, Johnson highlighted the unseen challenges athletes face and the perseverance required in elite sports. She emphasized the resilience of athletes who continue to perform at the highest level even in the face of adversity.
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