Lindsey Vonn, the 41‑year‑old American downhill star, confirmed she ruptured her left ACL after a crash in the final World Cup race at Crans‑Montana. Airlifted to a Swiss hospital, she said the knee feels stable, strong and non‑swollen, leaving a slim but real chance to start the Cortina downhill on Sunday.

Vonn entered Cortina atop the World Cup downhill standings, boasting two wins and three podiums this season, and was listed for the downhill, super‑G and team combined events. Despite bruising and meniscus damage, she plans to assess her condition day by day, acknowledging the odds have shifted but refusing to quit.

Should Vonn line up at the start gate, it would mark a dramatic finale to a career punctuated by injuries and a 2010 Olympic gold. Her determination fuels U.S. medal hopes, yet medical clearance remains pending for the February 10 and 12 races. Fans will watch closely as she weighs risk versus legacy.