Lindsey Vonn’s Open Letter to the U.S. Alpine Ski Team, Fans, and the Global Skiing Community: As I reflect on the many turns, jumps, crashes, and podiums that shaped my journey, I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude. This open letter is not just a goodbye or a look back, but a celebration of a life on skis and the beautiful, passionate community that made it all possible.
Whether it was during grueling training camps, lonely rehab sessions, or standing atop Olympic peaks, I always knew I was a part of something great. To my U.S. Ski Team family, thank you for believing in a young girl from Minnesota who simply loved the snow. You molded me, challenged me, supported me, and never stopped pushing me toward excellence. The road wasn’t always smooth, but your belief in me was the rope I clung to.
To my admirers all throughout the world, you have been both my inspiration and my fire. Throughout the highs and lows, your letters, cheers, and messages reminded me of why I do this. I skied not only for medals, but also for you—for the little girl watching with enormous goals, the athlete recovering from an injury, and the woman pursuing her strength. Even when I felt devastated, your belief inspired me to be bold.
To the global skiing community, thank you for welcoming me, challenging me, and demonstrating the true spirit of the sport. Competing on the world stage taught me that even when we race alone, we succeed together. The connections, rivalries, and camaraderie developed on the slopes are invaluable. You taught me to be gracious in defeat and humble in success.
My path has always been about more than just speed. It’s been about resilience—falling and rising repeatedly. It has been about striving for greatness, not only as a skier, but as a person. You provided me the opportunity to mature—not just as an athlete, but as a woman proud of her scars, strength, and narrative.
As I step away from competition and onto new peaks in life, I carry you all with me. I may no longer chase hundredths of a second, but I will always pursue purpose, empowerment, and passion—with the same zeal that blazed down every ice course.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and support, and for turning this wild ride into the most meaningful chapter of my life.
With profound affection and eternal thanks,
Lindsey Vonn is an Olympic champion, World Cup legend, and proud member of the skiing family.