Lindsey Vonn announced on Tuesday morning that she will not compete during the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia.
She said on Facebook, “I am devastated to announce that I will not be competing in Sochi. I did everything that I possibly could to somehow get strong enough to overcome having no ACL but the reality has sunk in that my knee is just too unstable to compete at this level. I’m having surgery soon so that I can be ready for the World Championships at home in Vail next February.”
“On a positive note, this means there will be an additional spot so that one of my teammates can go for gold. Thank you all so much for all of the love and support. I will be cheering for all of the Olympians and especially team USA! XO Lindsey”
Bill Marolt, president of the U.S. Skiing and Snowboard Association said, “While Lindsey won’t be in Sochi, we have a strong team that is well prepared to challenge. The women’s speed team is experienced with five athletes who have achieved World Cup podiums and a seasoned veteran in Julia Mancuso, who has won three Olympic medals in her career. Now is the time for those athletes to step up towards our best in the world vision.”
The sudden departure of Vonn from the Sochi Olympics is likely to send Procter & Gambles, Under Armour, Head, Red Bull, Oakley and Rolex into overdrive. Each of these top brands have already cast Lindsey as the face of their Sochi Games media blitz prior to and during the 2014 Olympics.
Photo: WENN, Video Screen Grab