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Lindsey Vonn Breaks Silence On ESPYs Wardrobe Malfunction

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 3:20 PM ET

Olympic skier Linsey Vonn went viral at the 2025 ESPY Awards for the wrong reason.

Vonn, 40, was nominated for the Best Comeback Award at this year's ESPYs. The three-time Olympic medalist defied the odds and made her return to competitive skiing earlier this year, recording a second-place finish in the super-G at the World Cup Finals. It was an incredible accomplishment considering she had partial knee replacement.

"Never in a million years would I have ever expected to be back here," Vonn said at the World Cup Finals. "I mean, when I saw you last, it was emotional because I was ending my career and that was it. That was the end, and I definitely wish that it hadn’t been the end because I love skiing and it’s always been my passion since I was a kid, but my body was no longer cooperating. Thankfully with this partial knee replacement, now I’m lucky enough to have the chance again."

Even though Vonn didn't win the Best Comeback Award, she had everyone's attention on Wednesday night. That's because she suffered a wardrobe malfunction on the red carpet.

At least that's what everyone thought.

Vonn showed up to the ESPYs in a strapless dress with a thigh-high split near her left leg. As she was walking on the red carpet, people were able to see her thong.

Some fans accused Vonn of intentionally seeking the spotlight, while others thought it was an accident.

Well, it turns out Vonn's "wardrobe malfunction" was by design.

Vonn shared a photo of her outfit on Instagram along with this message: "For those who didn't quite get it... the underwear are a part of the look."

You got to respect Vonn for being honest.

So what's next for Vonn? She plans on competing in the 2025 Winter Games in Milan, Italy.

If Vonn wins an Olympic medal next year, she may find herself nominated for another ESPY Award.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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