Lindsey Vonn has torn her left ACL heading into the Winter Olympics but still plans to attempt to compete.
“Unfortunately, it’s been confirmed that Lindsey Vonn has torn her left ACL heading into the Olympics,” Dr. David Chao said. “I’m rooting for her, but the Lindsey Vonn news is very saddening.”
Chao said the injury was identified through video analysis days earlier and is especially significant given Vonn’s medical history. She previously underwent a total right knee replacement and had been considered a medal contender before suffering the left knee injury.
“She was a favorite, and now she tears her left knee ACL again,” Chao said. “Wishing her luck — she says she’s going to compete in the Olympics still or try with a brace.”
Chao noted he has experience allowing athletes to compete with ACL tears, citing former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers playing through a torn ACL in an AFC Championship Game. However, he cautioned that skiing presents a far different challenge.
“Skiing is a very ACL-dependent sport,” Chao said. “It’s ultimate high speed, very high force, and the brace does not have a great chance of working.”
While Chao hopes Vonn can safely compete, he expressed concern about expectations and potential risk.
“It would be great if Lindsey Vonn could compete. It would be awesome,” Chao said. “But I fear it’s a far, far cry to think that she’s going to be able to medal. Let’s just get her off the mountain safely.”
Vonn, 41, has overcome numerous injuries throughout her career. Chao said he hopes she can once again defy the odds but emphasized that safety should remain the priority as she attempts a remarkable return.
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