Lindsey Vonn has always known how to make an entrance, and the 2026 ESPY Awards were no exception. The Olympic skiing legend traded her ski boots for a stunning Gucci gown, proving that even while recovering from a brutal injury, she can still steal the spotlight.
For the second year running, Vonn turned heads on the red carpet. This time, she opted for a shimmering sequined Gucci creation that caught every flashbulb in New York City. According to reports, she accessorized with diamond drop earrings from Fred Leighton and a sparkling diamond ring by Kwiat, finishing the look with her blonde hair swept to one side.
Last year, Vonn made headlines for a different reason—her strapless dress with a dramatic thigh-high split sparked speculation about a wardrobe malfunction. She quickly set the record straight, explaining that the exposed undergarments were part of the design. This year, she kept the conversation focused on pure glamour.
Vonn's appearance at the ESPYs came just months after she suffered a complex tibia fracture during the downhill event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d'Ampezzo. The injury required multiple surgeries before she could return to the United States. Despite the severity, Vonn was all smiles on the red carpet, showing no signs of being hampered by her recovery.
“When the ESPYs move to NYC you know it’s gonna be good,” Vonn wrote on social media. “Congratulations to all the nominees and winners. Always inspiring to see all of the incredible things athletes can achieve.”
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Vonn opened up about her slow but steady recovery. “Even since the Met, I feel amazing,” she said. “I’m working out in the gym finally, which has been a huge step forward for me, but it’s been a very slow process, you know, it’s been 5 months since I’ve been able to actually go to the gym in a somewhat meaningful way, and walking is still actually really hard for me. My ankle is still broken, but you know, one thing at a time. My leg is healing, and that’s important.”
At 41, Vonn hasn't officially retired, leaving fans to wonder if another improbable comeback is on the horizon. Her resilience is reminiscent of other athletes who have defied odds, like Suni Lee's comeback announcement for the 2028 LA Olympics.
While Vonn's fashion choices dominated the conversation, the ESPYs themselves had plenty of other moments—some more controversial. For instance, the Savannah Bananas' opener stirred up fan fury, and a Tiger Woods joke fell flat, drawing criticism. But for Vonn, the night was a celebration of athletic achievement and personal style.
As she continues her recovery, one thing is clear: Lindsey Vonn remains a force both on and off the slopes.
