The 2026 Winter Olympics are underway in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, and while Lindsey Vonn is defying the odds to compete, Team USA is battling to maintain its lead in the mixed team figure skating event. Can Vonn overcome a devastating injury to achieve greatness one more time, and will the American figure skaters hold off their rivals to secure a coveted medal? The drama is just beginning to unfold.
Key Takeaways
- Lindsey Vonn is competing in the women’s downhill final just days after a major ACL tear, showcasing incredible resilience. She finished 3rd in the downhill at the 2022 Olympics.
- Team USA is currently leading the mixed team figure skating event, but faces stiff competition from Japan and Canada. Team USA’s odds to win team gold are -200 on DraftKings.
- The women’s downhill skiing final is set to begin at 5:30 a.m. ET, with snowboarding finals following at 7:00 a.m. ET.
Will Lindsey Vonn’s Grit Overcome Injury?
Lindsey Vonn’s return to the slopes after a devastating knee injury is nothing short of remarkable. Just days after tearing her ACL, she’s set to compete in the women’s downhill skiing final. This echoes her storied career, marked by both triumph and adversity, as she already returned from a broken arm earlier in the season to compete. Vonn, who finished third in the downhill at the 2022 Winter Olympics, faces an uphill battle against a field of talented skiers. Experts are divided on her chances, with some questioning whether her knee can withstand the punishing demands of downhill racing. “It’s a testament to her incredible will,” said former Olympic skier Picabo Street on NBC Sports, “but downhill is unforgiving. One wrong move and it could be over.” The women’s downhill event kicks off at 5:30 a.m. ET and promises to be one of the most compelling events of the day, as fans around the globe will tune in to see if the legendary Vonn can defy the odds one more time. Betting odds currently place her as a +500 underdog to win gold, according to FanDuel.
Can Team USA Hold On In Figure Skating?
Team USA currently holds a tenuous lead in the mixed team figure skating event, but the competition is fierce. After strong performances in the earlier segments, the team now faces pressure to maintain their position in the remaining free skate programs. The squad is counting on its depth across all disciplines to outscore rivals from Japan and Canada, both known for their exceptional individual skaters. The team event includes segments for men’s, women’s, pairs, and ice dance. “The U.S. depth across all four disciplines is what’s really impressive,” noted three-time Olympian Michelle Kwan, now serving as a team advisor. “It’s not just about one skater—it’s the collective strength.” The mixed team final begins at 1:30 p.m. ET, and all eyes will be on whether Team USA can convert its lead into a gold medal. Ilia Malinin, despite a stumble in the short program, remains a key component for the Americans, and his performance in the free skate could be decisive. According to DraftKings, Team USA’s odds to win team gold improved from -150 to -200 after the short program.
Other Events To Watch
Beyond the drama on the slopes and the ice, Sunday’s schedule is packed with other exciting events. The snowboarding men’s and women’s giant slalom finals start at 7:00 a.m. ET, showcasing incredible athleticism and skill on the halfpipe. These events often feature unpredictable upsets and breakthrough performances, making them a must-watch for any Olympics fan. The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics are coming soon, so keep a look out for those as well. The full schedule of events provides a detailed overview of all the competitions happening throughout the day.
Players/Teams Mentioned
- Lindsey Vonn: Returning to competition after a serious ACL tear; finished 3rd in downhill at the 2022 Olympics.
- Team USA (Figure Skating): Currently leading the mixed team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Ilia Malinin: American figure skater, 19 years old, known for landing the quad Axel, a difficult jump involving 4.5 rotations.
What This Means
- For Team USA fans: The figure skating team’s performance in the free skate will determine whether they secure a gold medal, with current odds at -200, indicating a strong chance of victory.
- For skiing enthusiasts: Lindsey Vonn’s return from injury adds a compelling narrative to the women’s downhill, with her odds at +500 offering a potentially rewarding bet for those who believe in her comeback.
- For general sports fans: The Winter Olympics continue to deliver thrilling moments and inspiring stories, showcasing the dedication and skill of athletes from around the world.
Source: www.espn.com
Disclosure: Trending Society provides sports analysis for entertainment purposes. Not betting or fantasy advice.
