Petra Vlhova: Slovakian skier out for season after injuring knee in World Cup slalom crash

Petra Vlhova, being removed from the course on a sled, won gold in the slalom at the 2022 Winter Olympics

Petra Vlhova's season is over after the Slovakian skier sustained a knee injury during a crash in the women's giant slalom.

The Olympic slalom champion lost control during a turn just 14 seconds into her run at the World Cup event in Jasna, Slovakia.

Vlhova, 28, slid into the safety fencing and had to be transported off the hill on a sled.

"I will fight for the earliest possible comeback," Vlhova said.

"Thank you all for the support. I am positive I can handle the situation."

Vlhova initially avoided a fall and looked to have regained her balance, but leaned back and crashed sideways into the fencing.

Racing in front of a 10,000-strong home crowd, Vlhova received treatment at the side of the course before being taken to hospital.

"That means the season is over for us, for Petra. From now on we are looking into the future," said Vlhova's coach Mauro Pini.

Italian Federica Brignone, who led the giant slalom season standings coming into the race, fell early in her run but was unhurt.

Sweden's Sara Hector claimed her first World Cup victory of the season, finishing 1.52 seconds ahead of American Mikaela Shiffrin in second.

Shiffrin retains top spot in the overall World Cup standings, with Vlhova trailing her by 307 points in second place.

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