‘You’re Not Good Enough’: Lindsey Vonn Looks Back at Heartbreaking Times Before Skiing Career Took Off

Lindsey Vonn’s journey to alpine skiing glory was not without its moments of doubt and adversity. In a conversation with LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky, Vonn recalled the heartbreaking moment when, at just 16 years old, she overheard her coach question her potential to reach the Olympics.

Despite her relentless hard work and love for skiing, this stinging criticism left her devastated, as her dreams seemed to hang by a thread. However, instead of surrendering to doubt, Vonn used the experience as a catalyst for change, setting out to prove her critics wrong. Driven by a fierce resolve, she embraced her training with renewed intensity, determined to demonstrate her capabilities.

Her dedication paid off. Vonn not only made her Olympic debut in 2002 but went on to become one of the most celebrated alpine skiers in history. With four Overall World Cup titles, 82 World Cup race wins, and a gold medal at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, Vonn cemented her legacy.

Even after retirement, she continued to break barriers, becoming the first woman to ski the treacherous Streif in Kitzbühel, Austria, in 2024. Reflecting on the tough words from her coach, Vonn now sees them as a blessing, a turning point that ignited a lifelong drive for excellence and resilience.