Lindsey Vonn, the top World Cup downhiller last season at age 41, has a special understanding of Serena Williams' comeback as a fellow 40-something athlete. Vonn recently watched Williams play her first professional tennis match in nearly four years.
What happened?
Vonn made her own comeback in December 2024 with a partial titanium replacement in her right knee, finishing the season with two victories and seven podium results. However, her horrific crash at the Milan Cortina Olympics in February left her with a severely fractured left leg.
Why it matters for Lindsey Vonn
Vonn has undergone eight surgeries following her Olympic crash and needs at least one more to repair a torn ACL in that same knee. Despite this, she's back in the gym and has resumed physical training, while still assessing whether she'll compete again.
What comes next?
On Centre Court at Wimbledon, Williams will play her first singles match since 2022 against 20-year-old Maya Joint of Australia. Vonn expects Williams to play well but not show all her cards yet, saying she's the GOAT no matter what happens.
Vonn talked with Williams after the tennis standout's doubles victory with partner Victoria Mboko at Queen's Club in London. Vonn said Williams was in great spirits and having fun, which she loved seeing.
The two athletes share a credo of setting the bar high to create new standards. Serena Williams said, "You have to believe in yourself and go for any dream, no matter how wild it may be."
Lindsey Vonn's 45 World Cup downhill wins are the most by a male or female skier. She's an inspiration to many, including Williams, who said Vonn played a role in inspiring her to come back.
Vonn's crash nearly led to a leg amputation, but she's determined to recover and possibly compete again. Her experience and support for Williams show that women can accomplish great things at any age.
Williams is a 23-time Grand Slam champion in singles and has won 14 more Grand Slams in doubles, all with her sister Venus Williams as her partner. Vonn and Williams are both examples of athletes who continue to push boundaries and achieve greatness in their 40s.
The outcome of Williams' match at Wimbledon is uncertain, but one thing is clear: both Vonn and Williams are dedicated to their sports and will continue to inspire fans around the world.
Lindsey Vonn's story is one of perseverance and determination, and her support for Serena Williams is a testament to the strong bond between female athletes. As Vonn continues her recovery, she remains a role model for many, showing that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
The world of alpine skiing and tennis will be watching as both Vonn and Williams continue their journeys, inspiring fans and pushing the boundaries of what's possible for women in sports.