Vonn has ruptured ACL but will compete at Olympics

American downhill skier Lindsey Vonn says she has ruptured one of her anterior cruciate ligaments but still hopes to compete at the Winter Olympics in Italy.

The 41-year-old was airlifted to hospital in Switzerland on Friday after crashing in the final World Cup race before the Games.

The former Olympic champion said her knee feels "stable, strong and is not swollen" and is "very hopeful" she will make the women's downhill event in Cortina on Sunday.

"This is obviously not what I hoped for. I have been working really hard to come into these Games in a much different position.

"I know what my chances were before the crash and I know that my chances aren't the same as it stands now, but I know there is still a chance.

"As long as there is a chance, I'll try. That's where I am."