Olympic Gold Medalist Lindsey Vonn to Divorce

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After four years of marriage, U.S. Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn and husband Thomas Vonn have announced they have filed for divorce.

The Olympic gold medalist confirmed the news to the Associated Press on Sunday night with the following statement: "This is an extremely difficult time in my personal life and I hope the media and my fans can respect my need for privacy on this matter."

Thomas, who also serves as his wife's chief advisor, told the AP that the proceedings had begun last Monday.

Lindsey and Thomas were married September 29, 2007.

Vonn is one of the most successful American skiers in U.S. team history, winning three consecutive overall World Cup and downhill championships.