Gaon Choi Upsets Chloe Kim’s Olympic Three-Peat Bid
The women’s snowboard halfpipe competition in Livigno, Italy, witnessed a stunning upset as 17-year-old Gaon Choi defeated her mentor, Chloe Kim. This victory halted Kim’s pursuit of a historic third consecutive Olympic gold medal.
Choi’s Historic Victory
Gaon Choi claimed the gold with a score of 90.25, overcoming a severe fall during her earlier runs. Chloe Kim, who led with 88 points after the initial run, ultimately settled for silver. This event marked a significant moment for South Korean snowboarding.
Chloe Kim’s Journey
At 25, Chloe Kim was on the verge of making history as the first snowboarder to achieve three Olympic golds in halfpipe. Despite battling a shoulder injury leading into the competition, she performed admirably during qualifiers, which were her first of the season.
The Turning Point
- Choi struggled in her initial runs, needing a concussion evaluation after a heavy crash.
- She bounced back in her final run, showcasing remarkable technique and resilience.
- Kim, despite her strong showing, faltered on a trick she had executed flawlessly earlier.
A Special Bond
Choi and Kim have shared a unique bond for nearly a decade. Both families formed a connection before the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, fostering a supportive community for the young athlete. Choi praised Kim’s family for significantly influencing her career.
Significance of the Win
Choi’s triumph is monumental as it not only makes her the first female Korean athlete to win a medal in snow sports but also gives South Korea its inaugural snowboard gold. She expressed a desire to popularize the sport within her country through her performances.
Choi’s story symbolizes the shifting dynamics in snow sports, particularly among Asian athletes, in a landscape that has not always been welcoming. With her victory, she hopes to inspire a new generation of snowboarders.
