The crash was especially heartbreaking given Vonn’s determination to compete despite already battling a recent knee injury. Just days before the Olympic race, she had torn her ACL in another event but pushed forward in hopes of competing in what could have been her final Olympic appearance. Team USA praised her resilience while noting that recovery will take time, highlighting the extreme risks of alpine skiing.

Support quickly poured in from across the sporting world. Teammates and fans sent messages of encouragement, and fellow American skier Breezy Johnson — who later won gold — said Vonn remained positive even while being transported for treatment, showing the strong spirit that has defined her career.