The American skier has returned home after spending a week in an Italian hospital, where she underwent four surgeries on her fractured left leg.

Lindsey Vonn has been discharged from hospital (Image: Getty)
Lindsey Vonn has finally made her way back to the United States after receiving treatment for the fractured left leg she suffered in her crash at Milan‑Cortina. The 41‑year‑old had to be airlifted to hospital after colliding with a gate in a high‑speed mishap just 13 seconds into the women’s downhill event.

After a week in an Italian hospital, Vonn revealed she has now returned home following four surgeries. However, her journey back to the States was far from smooth, as she shared a video detailing the complications she faced. Taking to Instagram, she wrote: “My leg is still in pieces… but I’m finally HOME! Intensive care unit – ambulance – plane – ambulance – hospital.

“Thankful to all of the medical staff who helped me get home and seriously looking forward to my next surgery when I can get the X-fix out of my leg and will be able to move more. My injury was a lot more severe than just a broken leg. I’m still wrapping my head around it, what it means and the road ahead… but I’m going to give you more detail in the coming days.”

In the video shared, Vonn is seen being cared for by medical staff as she lies on a stretcher with several wires and tubes attached to her leg. She is transported by ambulance before being placed on a stretcher and lifted onto the airplane.

During the flight, she remained on the stretcher and was connected to multiple monitors. Upon arriving back in the United States, Vonn was taken to an American hospital, where she will continue to receive treatment.

With a long recovery ahead of her, Vonn’s father, Alan Kildow, has suggested that his daughter’s racing days may now be over. “She’s 41 years old, and this is the end of her career,” he shared with The Associated Press on February 9.

“There will be no more ski races for Lindsey Vonn, as long as I have anything to say about it. She’s a very strong individual. She knows physical pain, and she understands the circumstances that she finds herself in.

“And she’s able to handle it. Better than I expected. She’s a very, very strong person. And so I think she’s handling it real well. She’s well cared for. And the USOC and the US Ski team have a very, very top-notch doctor with her, and she is being very well cared for here in Italy.”