Skiing legend Lindsey Vonn has opened up about the heartbreaking loss of her dog, Lucy, who passed away on Sunday night.
Lucy, a 9-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, had been a constant companion to Vonn during her travels, offering unwavering support and joy.
In recent days, Vonn had shared the news that Lucy’s kidneys were failing and that the prognosis was grim.
Saying Goodbye to a Loyal Companion
In an emotional Instagram post, Vonn shared her grief and the depth of the bond she shared with Lucy. “Today my sweet, sweet Lucy left us,” Vonn wrote.
“Nine years ago, she came into my life, and from the very first moment until the very last, she brought so much light and love to me and everyone she met.”
The post was accompanied by photos of their many adventures together.
Vonn reflected on their travels around the world, skiing, hiking, biking, and even going to the Olympics together.
“We went on SO many incredible adventures together, and created so many memories that I am beyond lucky to have shared with her,” she shared.
A Life Full of Adventure and Love
Vonn expressed just how special Lucy was, saying, “There was nothing Lucy couldn’t do! She was never scared, never hesitant to try something new.
She was always happy, loved big and unconditionally.”
For Vonn, Lucy was more than a pet — she was family, and the loss is incredibly painful.
“There will never be enough words to describe how much I love her and my heart will never ever be the same without her,” she wrote.
In her message, Vonn found solace in the belief that Lucy is now with her mother, Bear, and other loved ones who have passed.
“I envision them all together, running around, happy and no longer in pain,” Vonn said. “Always guiding me and watching out for me from above.”
Gratitude and Reflection
Vonn also took a moment to thank the veterinarians who helped Lucy over the years, particularly in her final days.
“You all did everything possible to save her, and I will be forever grateful,” Vonn said.
While mourning the loss of Lucy, she found some comfort in knowing that her other dog, Leo, is still doing well, in remission, and going strong at 12 years old.
Tributes and Support from Fellow Athletes
Vonn’s announcement sparked an outpouring of love and support from fellow athletes and fans.
WNBA star Cameron Brink and tennis icon Coco Gauff were among those who offered their condolences.
“Sending you so much love,” Brink wrote, while Gauff expressed her sympathy with a heartfelt “I am so sorry.”
Balancing Grief with Professional Triumph
Despite her grief, Vonn managed to finish her comeback season with a second-place finish in a World Cup super-G race.
The skier, who is now 40 years old, had made history with this performance, becoming the oldest female Alpine ski racer to earn a World Cup podium spot.
Vonn admitted that leaving Sun Valley after Lucy’s condition worsened was difficult.
“I’ve got to go figure it out… I need all the luck I can get,” she said, expressing how the news had weighed heavily on her during the final races of the season.
The End of One Chapter, the Beginning of Another
In addition to her personal loss, Vonn was also coming to terms with the conclusion of an intense and emotional season.
She had planned to relax in the Bahamas after her ski races, but Lucy’s diagnosis had changed those plans.
“The only time I fly private is with my dogs,” Vonn said, explaining how Lucy had always been by her side during her travels.
Looking ahead, Vonn is focusing on her recovery and future goals, including more equipment testing in Europe in preparation for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics.
She expressed pride in her ability to return to form and perform at such a high level. “It feels great,” Vonn said.
“I always knew that I could do it… I think a lot of people saw on Sunday what it meant to me.”
Despite the emotional rollercoaster, Vonn remains motivated and ready for the challenges that lie ahead.