Tackling New Challenges with Lindsey Vonn

The rush of competition. Dedication to a singular goal. The unparalleled thrill of victory. These things drive professional athletes to push themselves well beyond the line where most of us would quit and turn back. The early morning workouts and carefully tailored lifestyle provide a structure and focus most of us couldn’t fathom. 

But, as the saying goes, time remains undefeated and a career as an elite athlete is temporary. When your entire life has been focused on reaching a specific goal, how do you reorient your entire being when that goal is suddenly gone?

For Lindsey Vonn, a decorated Olympian and one of the most successful downhill skiers of all time, the possibilities are endless, but that doesn’t mean the transition was easy. 

“When it finally came, it was still a hard transition, and everything that you’ve worked for your entire life is no longer something that you’re working for,” said Vonn. “You have to start fresh and it took me a bit to get into it, but it’s been a couple of years now and I’m really happy with where I am and the progress that I’ve made personally and professionally.”

Part of that progress involved writing a new book. Titled “Rise: My Story”, Vonn chronicles her career and the lessons she learned along the way, both on the slopes and off. It’s her hope that others can learn from her experiences.

“Hopefully it will help other people and inspire other people to overcome…whatever they’re facing.”

A crucial part of the adjustment process for many retired athletes is finding an outlet for all of their competitive energy. From coaching to broadcasting to investing, there are numerous examples of athletes taking up a new challenge when their days of competing are over. 

For Vonn, she has found the business world to be a challenge and an opportunity worthy of her time. But, what advice does she have for other athletes facing a similar transition? 

“Find what you’re passionate about. Obviously, as an athlete, you’re passionate about your sport, but when that’s gone, you have to find a new passion,” said Vonn. “You have to find something that challenges you, that excites you.”

While Vonn won’t be making headlines on the slopes anymore, it’s unlikely we’ve heard the last from her as she chases the next challenge. 

Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!

Image

Latest

Coupa Inspire 2025
A Global Conversation: Coupa Inspire 2025 Brings Innovation to Your Doorstep
September 12, 2025

Coupa Inspire 2025 is taking its flagship experience on the road with the Inspire World Tour, bringing the spirit of its celebrated event to five cities across four continents. By condensing the energy of its global gathering into free, one-day sessions, Coupa is expanding access to knowledge, innovation, and community-building opportunities for finance, procurement, and…

Read More
Royal Dublin
Mastering the Game: Akshay Bhatia and Coupa Inspire at the Royal Dublin
September 12, 2025

At the Royal Dublin, Coupa brought together community and competition with PGA pro and brand ambassador Akshay Bhatia, who shared lessons from the course that extend far beyond golf. His message, “Master your swing. Master your spend,” underscored the power of precision, discipline, and strategy in both sport and business. The event was not just…

Read More
Coupa Customer Appreciation Day with Akshay Bhatia at The Royal Dublin
September 11, 2025

Coupa’s Customer Appreciation Day at The Royal Dublin on July, 2025, brought together PGA Tour talent Akshay Bhatia and the community for a celebration of both sport and connection. Beyond the excitement of world-class golf, Bhatia shared practical “tour-level tips” in a relaxed clinic format, offering guidance on everything from escaping rough lies to mastering…

Read More
The Royal Dublin
Coupa Spotlight: Akshay Bhatia Tees Up Teaching at The Royal Dublin
September 11, 2025

American golfer Akshay Bhatia’s teaching session at The Royal Dublin this July marks more than a summer stop—it’s a sign of how golf’s rising stars are shaping the global game. For Coupa, the event highlights the intersection of tradition and modern growth, bringing fresh attention to one of Ireland’s most historic courses. Bhatia’s presence underscores…

Read More