Vonn had retired after taking downhill bronze at the 2019 World Championships, becoming at age 34 the oldest woman to win an individual world medal. She cited the toll ski racing had taken on her body over an 18-year career. Specifically, her right knee that had been surgically repaired multiple times.

Skiing legend Lindsey Vonn faces critisism and physical challenges as she returns to the slope at age 40. Despite past inujries and time away from the sport, Vonn is determined to prove she still belongs on the world stage.