Lindsey Vonn has undergone multiple surgeries. © ANSA / TIL BUERGY / STF

“Delicate situation”: Vonn’s doctor speaks out

A few days after the horrific fall of ski star Lindsey Vonn, the chief physician under whose direction the American was operated on has given insight into the treatment so far.

February 13, 2026

From: dpa/dl

“We did our duty. We knew that certain situations could arise and were prepared for them,” Dr. Stefano Zanarella told the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. He added that they had managed the complicated case with a team of experts and were satisfied with the recovery process.

Vonn suffered a heavy crash in the Olympic downhill race in Cortina d'Ampezzo last Sunday and was rescued by helicopter. She sustained a complex shin injury and has since undergone three operations on her left leg at a hospital in Treviso.

Lindsey Vonn underwent surgery in Treviso. © APA/afp / ANDREA PATTARO

A few days ago, the 41-year-old posted a photo from her hospital bed on social media and thanked, among others, the medical staff. Kirsty Coventry, head of the International Olympic Committee, described Vonn's message as "great" and "inspiring."

Vonn's gratitude fills doctors with pride

“The patient’s words fill us with pride, especially because we successfully managed a delicate and protracted medical situation,” said Zanarella. Vonn is “an exemplary patient, as are her American team and the doctors from the US association who are providing us with invaluable support. They are outstanding individuals and, at the same time, superb professionals.”

Sixteen years after her downhill gold in Canada, Vonn desperately wanted to win another Olympic medal at the Games in Italy and competed despite having suffered a torn cruciate ligament shortly beforehand. She experienced a sporting tragedy. She has so far remained undecided about her future. Before the season's highlight, however, Vonn had announced that she would retire from ski racing after this winter at the latest.