Lindsey Vonn revealed she nearly faced leg amputation after a Winter Olympics crash. For bettors, this confirms she’ll be sidelined long-term, shifting skiing futures and podium markets toward her rivals; expect shorter odds on top contenders and fewer live-money chances on Vonn in upcoming events.
Lindsey Vonn Reveals Near-Amputation After Winter Olympics Crash
Lindsey Vonn has disclosed she almost had her leg amputated after a severe crash just 13 seconds into the women's downhill at the Winter Olympics. The 41-year-old was airlifted to hospital and underwent multiple major operations in Italy before returning to the United States for further surgery and rehabilitation.
Crash, Evacuation and Initial Surgeries
Vonn struck a gate early in the downhill and suffered catastrophic lower-leg injuries. Medical teams in Italy performed four major operations to stabilise her condition before she flew home, where she required an additional procedure. Blood loss and low haemoglobin necessitated a transfusion during her recovery.
How Surgeons Saved Her Leg
Surgeons diagnosed a complex tibia fracture and a fractured fibula head compounded by compartment syndrome — a condition in which swelling restricts blood flow and threatens tissue. Dr Tom Hackett performed a fasciotomy, opening both sides of Vonn’s leg to relieve pressure and prevent amputation. Vonn credited that surgery with saving her limb.
Injuries, Mobility and Recovery Timeline
Vonn remains immobile and in a wheelchair after also breaking her right ankle. She expects to move to crutches in a few weeks and projects roughly a year for all bones to heal. Future plans include possible metal removal and a later surgery to repair the ACL. She emphasised a step-by-step rehab approach and determination to return to fitness.
Messages of Support
Messages from across the sporting world poured in, including praise from global stars. Cristiano Ronaldo posted a tribute under Vonn’s update, calling her strength legendary and urging her to keep fighting.
Betting Implications: How Markets May Shift
Vonn’s confirmation of a long recovery is likely to have an immediate effect on skiing markets. Outright and futures prices for events where she would typically be a factor should adjust to reflect her absence or reduced form.
Punters can expect:
- Shortened odds on established rivals as podium and title likelihoods rise.
- More value in backing emerging skiers now freed from competition against Vonn.
- Lower appeal for in-play or near-term props involving Vonn until she demonstrates full recovery.
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Monitor team announcements and medical updates before placing money; markets will move quickly on any firm return timeline.
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