Petra Vlhová before her return / We have to be realistic, two years without competing is not just about coming to the races and winning
Slovak skier Petra Vlhová prepares to make her competitive comeback after two years away from the slopes due to knee surgeries and injuries, eager to participate in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Cortina d'Ampezzo.
After more than two years away from competition, marked by two knee surgeries and significant personal struggle, Slovak skier Petra Vlhová is set to return to competitive skiing. Scheduled to compete in the Olympic team event on Tuesday, she expressed her excitement simply to be participating again, stating that her experience over the past years has made her appreciate this opportunity immensely. Vlhová emphasized her sheer joy at being back on the slopes after her injuries and extended absence from the sport.
Vlhová confirmed her participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics on a Saturday evening, displaying a readiness to test her skills on the Tofana slopes, where she will also compete in the slalom event, scheduled for the following week. Four years ago, she won the gold medal in slalom at the Beijing 2022 Olympics; however, reflecting on her lengthy absence, she refrained from setting specific performance goals, focusing instead on enjoying the experience ahead.
As she prepares for the Olympics, Vlhová recently received medical clearance for a full return to skiing, showing her readiness to take on both the competition and the emotional challenges of returning to the sport. Her story resonates not just within the sports community but also exemplifies resilience and determination, inspiring those who face similar struggles and setbacks in their own journeys.