Olympic skiing legend Lindsey Vonn is taking her competitive drive from the slopes to the boardroom. The three-time Olympic medallist has joined the advisory board of Athena Capital, a newly launched venture capital and private equity firm led entirely by women.
Speaking with Fast Company, Vonn explained how her sporting background translates into business:
“Competitive skiing is about precision, knowledge, and thriving under pressure. It’s not so different from venture capital, where you need to assess potential, manage risks, and stay sharp. Both require focus, tenacity, and a competitive mindset.”
This isn’t Vonn’s first step into the business world. She already has investments in professional women’s soccer, backing NWSL clubs Angel City FC and the Utah Royals. Now, alongside her return to competitive skiing, she’s adding venture capital to her growing résumé.
Vonn, who won downhill gold at Vancouver 2010 plus two Olympic bronze medals, is also preparing for a potential comeback at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. After retiring in 2019 due to persistent injuries, she revealed she now feels stronger than ever:
“This past season I felt better skiing than I did at the end of my career, and for the first time in years I’m pain-free. My retirement was forced by my body breaking down, not really on my own terms. Competing again in Cortina would feel like coming full circle.”
Balancing investment with her push toward a sixth Olympic Games, Vonn continues to inspire both on and off the slopes, proving that determination extends far beyond sport.
