Lindsey Vonn suffered a serious fall during the downhill race at the Winter Olympic Games in Cortina d’Ampezzo. The American skier chose to compete despite a ligament injury, only 15 days after her last World Cup race. Although clearly unprepared and returning from retirement, the American insisted on participating, even though many had openly pointed out the dangers of such a decision.
Lindsey Vonn fell just 13 seconds after the start of the downhill race and was transported by helicopter to a nearby hospital while in severe pain. The moments she spent lying on the slope, waiting for organisers to evacuate her, were brutal and distressing. This incident once again highlighted the danger of alpine skiing, especially downhill racing, and the immense risks that always exist when skiing from high mountain peaks.
Lindsey Vonn has the support of everyone, but it is important to know when the time comes to step away from professional sport and move on to something else. The whole world followed her interview and her announcement that she would compete at the Olympic Games; however, no Olympic Games are worth a situation like this.
Lindsey Vonn is one of the most successful skiers of all time, but above all, she is a person—a human being. She will not be remembered only for her skiing qualities, her style, or even her Olympic appearances, but as someone who achieved extraordinary things throughout her life.
Lindsey Vonn should truly enjoy her well-deserved sporting retirement. She should permanently step away from skiing at this level and leave her great career behind her, so she never has to face a situation like this again.
There are so many good things in life ahead after a sports retirement. Life offers you so much, and it is great.
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