Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – Slovakian alpine skier Petra Vlhová has made a highly anticipated return to competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, marking a significant milestone in her recovery from a serious knee injury. The comeback comes after a challenging period for the athlete, including a devastating fall during a World Cup slalom race in Jasná in 2024, a subsequent lengthy rehabilitation and recent changes in her personal life.
Vlhová’s injury, sustained during the slalom in Jasná, required two surgeries and a prolonged recovery process. She initially planned to return to competition in Sölden in October 2024, but ultimately decided to postpone her return, citing a need to regain optimal form. The period likewise coincided with the end of a five-year relationship, a development both she and her former partner, Michal Kyselica, publicly acknowledged. Vlhová’s return to the slopes is not just a sporting achievement, but a testament to her resilience and determination.
Speaking after her race, Vlhová emphasized that her primary goal was simply to return to competition, acknowledging that regaining her previous form would take time. “The result didn’t matter today. I just wanted to get back to racing and get back into competition mode. It’s been a long time. I have a big fight ahead of me, I’m determined, but I’m still just at the beginning. After everything that happened, I’m taking it as it comes,” she stated, according to reporting by TASR, the Slovak News Agency.
Adding a personal note, Vlhová expressed happiness in both her sporting and personal life, sparking speculation about a latest relationship. “I’m very happy that I can ski and that everything is as it should be in my personal life,” she said, a statement that surprised many given her typically private nature.
Support from Former Partner and Family
Despite their recent separation, Michal Kyselica publicly voiced his support for Vlhová. He shared a message on Instagram, stating, “Congratulations to the boss and legend Petra Vlhová on her return. What she has been through deserves nothing but respect and admiration. I’m glad I finally got to witness you at the Olympics and I wish that Slovakia had more people like you,” as reported by michal_kyselica on Instagram. Kyselica has since begun a relationship with model Lea from Dubai.
Vlhová’s return was also met with support from her family, who were present to witness her race. However, the athlete has also recently spoken about a strained relationship with her parents and brother, Boris, who reportedly felt disadvantaged due to her career. Further details on this family dynamic can be found on Diva.sk.
Shiffrin’s Gesture and a Moment of Shared Emotion
The sporting community also rallied around Vlhová, with American skier Mikaela Shiffrin demonstrating a remarkable display of sportsmanship. Shiffrin shared a photo with Vlhová on social media, captioning it “Two giants. One celebration,” highlighting the mutual respect between the two athletes. This gesture was noted as an uncommon display of camaraderie in the competitive world of alpine skiing.
The event was also marked by emotional scenes, with both Vlhová and former Slovakian representative Veronika Zuzulová visibly moved.
Petra Vlhová’s return to competition represents a significant step in her career, overcoming both physical and personal challenges. Whereas the road to regaining her peak performance will be long, her determination and the support of her team and fellow athletes suggest a promising future. The next steps for Vlhová will focus on building strength and refining her technique as she prepares for future competitions.
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