Petra Vlhová, the Slovak alpine skier, has opened up about her struggles and recovery from a serious knee injury as she prepares for her participation in the upcoming Olympics. Speaking to Slovak journalists in Cortina d’Ampezzo, she reflects on the moment when she thought she'd never ski again and shares her feelings about the current state of her fitness. Despite recent improvements in her recovery, she admits that her knee still limits her performance, particularly in slalom, which requires precise movements and agility.

Vlhová suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a giant slalom race in January 2024 and had not competed for two years prior to her decision to return to the sport. She acknowledges the difficulties facing her as a slalom specialist, where knee stability is crucial for executing proper technique. As she navigated her rehabilitation, she sought advice from her team but ultimately made the decision to return on her own. She is set to compete in the team event and individual slalom at the Olympics, marking it as a significant milestone in her career.

The return of athletes like Vlhová after a major injury raises questions about rehabilitation and the psychological impact of injuries. Experts weigh in on the complexities of returning to slalom, noting that the sport demands specific skills that may take longer to regain after an injury compared to downhill skiing. As Vlhová steps back into competitive skiing, her journey serves as an inspiration to many and highlights the resilience required to overcome physical challenges while pursuing athletic excellence.