Lindsey Vonn Shows That Champions Approach Life Differently

When it comes to finding success in today’s competitive, fast-paced world, going the extra mile is paramount. But knowing that doesn’t always lead to behaving that way, does it? 

Sometimes the opposite path—taking the easy route—seems more attractive. 

Not for legendary American skier Lindsey Vonn. For the 41-year-old gold medal winning racer, any opportunity is the only opportunity. Even when it means racing on a torn ACL. 

Vonn, who was set to appear in her final Winter Olympics this week in Italy, injured herself in a race in the Swiss Alps a week ago. She had to be airlifted out and the diagnosis led many to believe she would miss her final Olympic Games. 

That’s when Vonn set the record straight. 

“As long as there’s a chance, I’ll try,” she said. 

Vonn, wearing a knee brace, competed over the weekend at the Olympics as only she can: full steam ahead. 

In her first competitive downhill event since the torn ACL, Vonn pushed down the snowy mountains of Cortina, Italy, on her skis one final time. 

The result, unfortunately, was not a gold medal but a bad fall 13 seconds into the race that left her with a fractured leg and other injuries. Again, she was airlifted to a hospital. Some criticized her for even trying. Others blamed Team USA for even allowing her to suit up. 

Vonn, though, reacted as a world class competitor should: She declared the decision to try what others believed unthinkable was hers and hers alone. And even as she prepared for multiple surgeries to repair her leg, she declared no regrets.

Gruesome as it might be, Vonn’s story pushes us to ask if we are approaching our own lives with the same tenacity? As tall as the odds might be, as difficult as the task may look, do we push ourselves forward as if today could be our last shot at success? 

Of course, that choice is not without its challenges. 

But it’s also not without its lessons. 

Despite everything, from bruises to broken bones, Vonn remains grateful for her chance. She tried, she dreamt, she jumped, she said. No regrets. 

In her first post on social media after the accident, she wrote a response to a journalist Monday morning. 

Her message? 

A simple thank you.