Ski legend Vonn (40) announces his return after almost five years

Lindsey Vonn returns to the ski slopes this winter. The 40-year-old American ended her career almost five years ago as the most successful skier of all time. Vonn is already in training with the American team and now officially announces her return.

“I look forward to being back with the team and sharing my knowledge of the sport with these fantastic women.”

Vonn made her debut on the World Cup circuit in 2000 in which she recorded a total of 82 victories, a record that was broken last year by her compatriot Mikaela Shiffrin. She won gold in the downhill at the Vancouver Winter Games in 2010. The two-time world champion also won two Olympic bronze medals.

After nineteen years and several serious injuries, she finished on the World Cup podium in Are, Sweden. “After many sleepless nights, I have finally accepted that I can no longer continue skiing,” Vonn said at the time. “My body is spent and cannot be healed anymore.”

Last April, Vonn underwent knee surgery, after which she is now back on skis pain-free. “It’s been an incredible journey to be able to ski without pain again,” says Vonn.

The U.S. Ski Federation says Vonn will be part of the national team with immediate effect. It is not yet known when she will ski her first races.