Lindsey Vonn has clapped back at comments from fellow athletes who labeled her “Grandma” following her return to professional skiing. The legendary American skier, who came out of retirement in November 2024 at age 40, didn’t take kindly to the remarks—especially from Slovenian skier Ilka Stuhec.
Vonn had initially stepped away from the sport in 2019 due to recurring injuries. However, after undergoing a successful knee replacement surgery in April 2024, she was determined to get back on the slopes. Her comeback proved fruitful—she placed second in the Super-G race at the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Finals in Idaho in March, making her the oldest female alpine skier to claim a World Cup podium finish.
Despite her impressive return, Vonn admitted that she’s been on the receiving end of some uncomfortable comments from younger athletes. Speaking to *Time.com*, she revealed that some skiers often gush over her career in ways that make her feel aged.
> “It was weird,” Vonn said. “They’re like, ‘I used to watch you when I was growing up.’ Can we not say that anymore? If I hear that one more time…”
She then specifically called out Stuhec, who reportedly teased her by calling her “Grandma.”
> “She did it to get under my skin,” Vonn said. “Like, why are we doing this? I get it if it’s an 18-year-old calling me grandma. But you’re in your 30s—let’s reel it back.”
Now 41, Vonn embraces her age and says she’s proud of the woman she’s become.
### Why Vonn Returned to Skiing
During the same interview, the skiing icon opened up about why she decided to return to competition. Her motivation wasn’t about proving anything—it was purely driven by passion.
> “I don’t need this,” she admitted. “I’m doing it because I love it. It’s fun and it’s a challenge. It means a lot to a lot of people. I’m not lacking purpose or joy. I just wanted to do what I love one more time. The only risk here is to myself—I’m not hurting anyone.”
Throughout her career, Lindsey Vonn has amassed 82 World Cup titles, eight World Championship medals, and three Olympic medals, solidifying her status as one of the greatest alpine skiers in history.
Even in her 40s, she continues to redefine what longevity and resilience look like in sports—reminding everyone that passion doesn’t have an age limit.
