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Lindsey Vonn, racing on a badly injured left knee, crashed early in the Olympic downhill Sunday and was airlifted by helicopter after receiving medical attention on the course.
Vonn, 41, lost control over the opening traverse after cutting the line too tight and was spun around. The race was put on hold as she received treatment.
Vonn could be heard screaming on television coverage as fans and teammates gasped in horror before a shocked hush fell on the finish area.
Teammate Breezy Johnson, the world champion who had set the fastest time, covered her eyes and looked away as a helicopter was called.
All eyes were on Vonn, the feel-good story heading into the Olympics. She returned to elite ski racing last season after nearly six years away from the circuit. On a partial titanium knee replacement in her right knee, too. Her surgery in April 2024 left her feeling so good that she decided to give it a go for another Olympics appearance.
More to come.