American Skiing sensation Lindsey Vonn made headlines earlier this week when she said she would represent the people of the United States, and not President Trump at the upcoming Winter Olympics in South Korea. Vonn also said that she would not visit the White House if invited.
Two days after making those comments, Vonn’s chances of representing anyone in the Olympics were put at risk after she sustained a back injury during the the Super-G Race. An injury serious enough that she had to withdraw from Sunday’s skiing events at the World Cup in Switzerland.
Vonn tweeted on Sunday, “I am extremely disappointed, but my biggest goal this season is the Olympics and I need to take care of myself now so I can be ready for next week, and more importantly, for February.”
According to Fox News, “On Saturday, Vonn crossed the finish line in obvious distress, almost one second behind the then-leader, and slumped to the snow.
“Vonn’s tentative run after jarring her back early on placed her 24th, trailing 1.56 seconds behind the surprise winner, Jasmine Flury of Switzerland. The race was shortened due to strong winds higher up the mountain.
“Vonn stayed in the finish house to be treated, and one hour later limped slowly into a waiting car to be driven from the St. Moritz course.”
Vonn went on to describe her injuries on Twitter:
Vonn made it clear in an interview with CNN that she would “absolutely not,” visit the White House if invited. She also said that she would “represent the people of the United States, not the president.”
The two-time Olympic medalist went on to imply that President Trump does not represent America well in the world. “I want to represent our country well, ” Vonn said. “I don’t think that there are a lot of people currently in our government that do that.”
“I was asked my opinion and I gave it,” Vonn told reporters Friday. “I mean, it’s not necessarily my place to be sticking my nose in politics, but as an athlete I do have a voice.”
Vonn went on to list several athletes, whom she respects, that have spoken out politically; including Colin Kaepernick.
“People like Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe and Colin Kaepernick,” Vonn said on Friday. “There’s definitely been a lot of people that have made their voice heard and made a positive impact.”
Vonn is expected to recover from her injuries.
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