Winter Olympics star Lindsey Vonn shares injury update after painful personal news

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Feb 18, 2026 9:21 PM ET

Lindsey Vonn is back in the United States after a devastating end to her time in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The 41-year-old crashed in her first medal race, the downhill final, resulting in a fractured left leg. Vonn had to undergo multiple surgeries, which ruled her out for the rest of the Winter Games.

After at least four rounds of surgery, Vonn finally got the clearance to return home to the United States. She arrived on Monday after a difficult plane ride home. She said that she still couldn’t stand, but she was thrilled to be back on home soil.

Winter Olympics athlete Lindsey Vonn.Leonhard Foeger/Reuters via Imagn Images

On Wednesday, Vonn announced some unfortunate personal news. She revealed that her dog Leo had died on the same day she crashed in the Winter Games.

Vonn shared a couple of photos and videos of her pet on Instagram, including one of Leo joining her during a workout session. The decorated alpine skier also posted a photo of her two other dogs, who have also passed away. “My family that’s up in heaven,” she wrote, along with a crying and broken heart emoji.

A few hours later, Vonn shared an update about her injury. She revealed that she’s about to go under the knife again.

“Going in for surgery soon... lot on my mind but hoping this will be a big step forward " she wrote.

Vonn’s latest post included another photo of Leo, who features as the wallpaper on Vonn’s laptop. The three-time Olympic medalist is still grieving the loss of her beloved dog as she prepares for her next round of surgery. She's also optimistic about moving forward in her recovery.

Despite her loss, Vonn has continued to support Team USA at the Olympics. She sent a congratulatory message to skiing teammate Mikaela Shiffrin after the latter won gold in the slalom final on Wednesday.

Vonn is still with her team in Italy in spirit.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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