Lindsey Vonn is bouncing back—and maybe even moving on. Three months after a terrifying crash at the Winter Olympics nearly ended her career, the legendary U.S. skier has sparked dating rumors with a fellow athlete.
Vonn and French skier Matthieu Bailet were spotted enjoying a low-key date in New York City's SoHo neighborhood on Thursday, according to Page Six. The pair shared a cozy lunch before hopping on the subway together, sitting close as they waited for the train. Neither Vonn nor Bailet has commented publicly, but the sighting has fans buzzing.
The news comes as a welcome shift for Vonn, who has been open about the grueling recovery process following her devastating injury at the Winter Games in Italy. During the women's downhill, she suffered a life-threatening leg injury that required emergency surgery and an airlift off the mountain. Doctors managed to save her leg, but the road back has been anything but easy.
“I’d say in the last month, it’s definitely gotten better, but of course there were really low moments,” Vonn told PEOPLE. “It was quite a challenge, just being in the hospital alone for two and a half weeks. Being completely immobile for that extended time period was so rough.”
Vonn, widely regarded as one of the greatest skiers in U.S. history, has faced an uphill battle both physically and mentally. The crash not only sidelined her from competition but also forced her to rely on others for basic tasks—a humbling experience for someone used to dominating the slopes.
But the 41-year-old appears to be turning a corner. Her outing with Bailet, a 30-year-old French skier, suggests she's ready to embrace life beyond the hospital bed. While neither has confirmed a relationship, the pair's chemistry is hard to ignore. Both share a deep connection to the sport, which could make for a powerful partnership.
Vonn's recovery has been closely watched by fans and fellow athletes alike. Her resilience has inspired many, and this new chapter adds a layer of intrigue to her comeback story. Whether she returns to competitive skiing or focuses on her personal life, one thing is clear: Lindsey Vonn isn't letting her injury define her.
For now, the dating rumors offer a glimpse of hope and happiness after a dark period. As she continues to heal, Vonn seems determined to enjoy the ride—and maybe even share it with someone special.
