Petra Vlhova has been included in Slovakia's team for the Milan Cortina Games. The 30-year-old Olympic slalom champion aims to make a comeback after more than two years out with a knee injury.
What happened?
Petra Vlhova tore ligaments in her right knee in January 2024. She hasn't competed since then but has been cleared by her medical team for full skiing intensity.
Why it matters for Petra Vlhova
Petra Vlhova's return is significant as she has been American standout Mikaela Shiffrin's main rival in slalom. Vlhova has won a total of 31 World Cup races and her slalom gold at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games was Slovakia’s first ever Olympic medal in Alpine skiing.
What comes next?
The women’s slalom at the 2026 Olympics is scheduled for February 18 in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Petra Vlhova will wait until 48 hours before the race to make her final decision on whether to compete. She has been training in the Czech resort of Spindleruv Mlyn.
Petra Vlhova has been training this week and called her preparations “great”. However, she does not plan to participate in the World Cup slalom and giant slalom races in Spindleruv Mlyn.
Vlhova became the first Slovak skier to win the women's overall World Cup title in 2021. Her return to competition will be closely watched as she aims to regain her form and challenge for medals at the Olympics.
The Slovak Olympic Committee announced the inclusion of Petra Vlhova in the team on Friday. Vlhova's decision to fight for a chance to compete at the Olympics is a testament to her determination and dedication to the sport.
Petra Vlhova's injury occurred on January 20, 2024, in a World Cup giant slalom in the Slovak resort of Jasna. She has been working hard to recover and is now ready to take the next step in her comeback.
The Milan Cortina Games will be a crucial test for Petra Vlhova as she aims to make a successful return to competition. With her experience and skill, she will be a strong contender for medals at the Olympics.