In the lead-up to Lindsey Vonn’s highly anticipated final race, there’s a notable absence among the well-wishers converging on the event in Sweden. P.K. Subban, the Nashville Predators’ star defenceman and Vonn’s boyfriend, won’t be present at her farewell ski competition due to a game scheduled in Tennessee on the same day. Despite his absence, Subban expressed his desire to celebrate Vonn’s momentous occasion from afar, emphasizing his commitment to supporting her.
During a challenging season when Vonn was recovering from yet another knee injury, Subban played a pivotal role in maintaining her spirits. His infectious positivity and antics helped distract Vonn from the struggles she faced. As Vonn puts it, Subban’s presence was akin to a breath of fresh air, lifting her focus away from skiing and onto her recovery efforts.
Vonn’s romantic journey has seen her share the spotlight with high-profile figures, including Tiger Woods and NFL coach Kenan Smith, following her divorce from retired skier Thomas Vonn. Her relationship with Subban became public in June when they made a joint appearance at the CMT Music Awards. Subban added a playful twist to their connection on July 4th, humorously questioning who wore a U.S.-themed bathing suit better.
Known for his larger-than-life personality in the world of hockey, Subban, often affectionately called “the Subbanator,” ventured into the world of entertainment with a TV special following the NHL’s All-Star Skills competition. He even launched a digital series called “The P.K. Project” that provides viewers with insights into his personal life. In one episode, Vonn made a cameo via video call, introducing herself as “L.V.” – a moniker shared with her boyfriend’s mother.
Despite their vastly different sports backgrounds, Vonn and Subban share Olympic gold medals and a penchant for competing in cold climates. Vonn’s victory in the downhill at the 2010 Vancouver Games and Subban’s role on Canada’s winning hockey team at the 2014 Sochi Games mark their shared Olympic success. As they brace for Vonn’s retirement from skiing, she plans to become an ardent supporter of Subban’s hockey career.
Amidst the humorous banter and shared admiration, the question of whether Subban can ski arises. Vonn reveals that while he can snowboard, she has no intentions of risking his professional career by taking him skiing. In return, Vonn, hailing from Minnesota, is well-versed in the art of skating, a pastime familiar to most from her home state.
Interestingly, Vonn’s allegiance to an NHL team presents a dilemma. Having witnessed the Colorado Avalanche win the Stanley Cup during her time in Colorado, she has a soft spot for them. However, her boyfriend’s team, the Predators, tugs at her loyalty as well. Ultimately, she admits, “It’s Colorado…well, I mean, that’s the hard part.”
Despite not sharing a common understanding of each other’s sports, Vonn and Subban have forged a deep connection grounded in mutual support and unwavering positivity. As Vonn hangs up her skis and transitions into her role as a professional hockey fan, she eagerly anticipates cheering on the Predators and relishing the next chapter of her life with Subban by her side.
