American superstar skier Lindsey Vonn “deserved a better ending” after suffering heartbreak in what could be her final Olympic event as she crashed in the women’s downhill competition in Cortina.

Vonn, 41, was competing nine days after rupturing ligaments in her left knee but hitting the gate with her ski pole on her first jump left her off balance, denying her the fairytale ending to a remarkable story.

The two-time world champion had successfully completed two training runs on the iconic Olimpia delle Tofane course but was airlifted off the piste after being tended to for a lengthy period.

A statement from the United States ski team said Vonn had “sustained an injury” but was in a “stable condition”.

Compatriot Breezy Johnson was in tears as she added Olympic gold to the world title she won last year after clocking a blistering time of one minute 36.10 seconds.

The 30-year-old watched on the big screen at the finish line with her head in her hands when her team-mate crashed, having completed her run sixth while Vonn was 13th to go.

Another American, Isabella Wright, watched the crash from the top of the slope before having to complete her own run, but said she had hoped Vonn would be able to complete the race despite the anterior cruciate ligament injury she sustained nine days ago.

“If anyone can, Lindsey can. Whatever it is, or whatever the situation, she’s very strong. We’re going to support her the best we can,” she said.

“She deserved a better ending than that so I’m heartbroken for her. I hope to see her and just support her. I know she’s in good hands right now. [I’m] anxiously waiting to see her.”

Germany’s Emma Aicher was pipped by 0.04 seconds and took the silver medal while Italian home favourite Sofia Goggia secured bronze.