Austrian ski superstar Hermann Maier is reportedly making excellent progress after he suffered severe injuries following a motorcycle accident near Radstadt, Austria, on August 24.

Maier reportedly took his first steps Tuesday and may be released from the hospital as early as this Sunday, September 16.

"Maier had an open break of both bones in his right lower leg, heavy bruising to both hips and the right upper leg and knee, right heel and left lower leg, bruising and inflammation of the upper lip and nose. In addition, Maier sustained a light impact to the head, and lost parts of two front teeth," Dr. Artur Trost, head surgeon, said last week. The surgical team also grafted skin from Maier's arm onto his right lower leg.

Maier allegedly swerved to avoid a Mercedes which abruptly turned in front of him at an intersection. The 73-year-old male driver was not injured.

After a visit to the hospital, Maier's personal physician, Dr. Johannes Zeibig, was relieved to find Maier optimistic: "It's not about racing in Kitzbühel in January, but Hermann is pleased that he can move his toes, and that he looks much better than the others in intensive care."

Maier has already begun physical rehabilitation with the hospital staff and his personal physiologist, Vincent Vermeulen.

Peter Schröcksnadel, President of the Austrian Ski Federation (ÖSV), says, "Right now winning is secondary to Hermann's general health, but with his unique physical condition he will win this race too."

— MountainZone.com Staff