Lindsey Vonn’s Recovery Goals for the Met Gala

Lindsey Vonn is setting her sights on a significant recovery goal for this year’s Met Gala.

The 2010 Olympic gold medalist in downhill skiing has announced that she plans to take her first steps without crutches during the event. This comes after suffering serious leg injuries in a crash at the recent Winter Olympics.

The 41-year-old athlete, who has faced a series of surgeries due to her injuries, has been using crutches in her recent public outings. However, she expressed her aspirations at the Met Gala, aiming to walk short distances unassisted.

In a conversation with CNN News Central, Vonn elaborated on her plans for New York. “There are some stairs. Yes, it’s going to be strenuous,” she shared. She recalled her discussions with designer Thom Browne about undertaking this challenge, noting the encouragement she feels. “I was like, ‘Can I do this? Can I do this?’ But I see the light at the end of the tunnel, and I’m going to try and walk.”

Vonn reflected, “Technically speaking, today will be my first time walking without crutches. If I can navigate from the bottom to the top of the stairs without crutches, that will be a big victory.”

Her journey comes on the heels of a devastating accident at the 2026 Winter Olympics that abruptly halted her competition.

During the women’s downhill event in Italy, Vonn lost control shortly after starting and suffered a compound fracture in her left leg. The nature of her injuries was severe, resulting in multiple fractures, including damage to her tibia and surrounding areas. She also experienced compartment syndrome—a serious condition resulting from increased pressure within the muscles that can limit blood flow.

At one point during her treatment, doctors were concerned she might lose her leg; however, emergency measures stabilized the injury.

Vonn has undergone eight surgeries throughout her lengthy recovery. Despite the challenges, she admits to still being in “survival mode” and not yet prepared to confront the crash that altered her trajectory.

“You know, I think it’s something I’ll have to reflect on eventually. Right now, I’m still focused on getting through this,” she explained. “I’m just not there yet. There are definitely lessons to be learned, and I always try to find the silver lining.”

She remains hopeful, suggesting, “Maybe this will be the best thing that’s ever happened to me. Perhaps it will open doors I didn’t even know existed. No matter how daunting and tough this situation is, the future is unpredictable, and I’m committed to forging ahead.”

Currently, there’s no established timeline for her complete recovery or a possible return to skiing.