Dec 14, (V7N) - Lindsey Vonn, the legendary Alpine skier and Olympic gold medalist, will return to the World Cup circuit for the first time in nearly six years. The 40-year-old announced she would compete in two super-G races in St. Moritz, Switzerland, on December 21-22, marking her first World Cup appearance since retiring in February 2019.

Vonn initially stepped away from the sport due to chronic injuries but decided to make a comeback after undergoing partial knee replacement surgery in April. The procedure, which replaced bone in her knee with titanium, allowed her to fully straighten her right leg for the first time in years. This transformative surgery has enabled her to ski without the constant pain that plagued her final years in competition.

During a press conference, Vonn expressed her renewed physical strength and excitement for skiing. "The passion for skiing has never gone away," she said. "Now that I have the chance to physically do what I love, why would I not try? Life is short."

Vonn, who has 82 World Cup victories and four overall World Cup titles, made her initial competitive return last weekend in four races at Copper Mountain, Colorado. Those performances helped solidify her decision to rejoin the World Cup circuit. While she acknowledged that regaining her top form might take time, she emphasized her determination to reach a competitive level.

"I'm trying to be as patient with myself as possible on this journey," she said. "I know my way back to a competitive level might take a race or two, but I certainly intend to get back to where I was before."

Fans will eagerly watch her return in St. Moritz, as Vonn aims to add to her already historic career.