Chloe Kim, a two-time Olympic snowboarding champion, was a favorite to win her third consecutive gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics. However, her journey was cut short after a series of falls during her final runs, allowing a young competitor to take the top spot. Many fans and analysts are wondering what exactly happened to Kim and what this means for her career and the sport. Below, we explore the details of her performance, the emerging talent, and the future of Olympic snowboarding.
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What happened to Chloe Kim at the 2026 Winter Olympics?
Chloe Kim failed to secure her third gold medal after falling on her final two runs in the women's halfpipe. Despite leading after her first run and landing a difficult trick, her subsequent falls cost her the victory. She was overtaken by 17-year-old Choi Ga-on of South Korea, who scored 90.25 on her last attempt. Kim's performance was marked by her injury struggles earlier this season and her attempt to land the sport's most difficult trick, a double-cork 1080.
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Who is Choi Ga-on and how did she win?
Choi Ga-on is a 17-year-old snowboarder from South Korea who made a remarkable comeback after a heavy fall in her final run. She scored 90.25 on her last attempt, overtaking Kim and winning the gold medal. Her victory is significant as it marks the first time a Korean woman has won gold in Olympic snowboarding, highlighting her as an emerging star in the sport.
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Can Kim still make history in future Olympics?
While Chloe Kim missed out on her third consecutive gold in 2026, she remains a prominent figure in snowboarding. Her previous wins in 2018 and 2022 set a high standard, and she has the talent and experience to compete in future Olympics. However, her recent setbacks and the rise of new talent like Choi Ga-on suggest that she will face tough competition if she aims for a fourth gold.
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What does this mean for Olympic snowboarding?
Kim's near-miss highlights the unpredictable and highly competitive nature of Olympic snowboarding. The emergence of young athletes like Choi Ga-on signals a new era in the sport, where fresh talent can challenge even the most established champions. It also underscores the importance of resilience and technical skill, as athletes push the boundaries of what is possible in the halfpipe.
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How did Kim's injury struggles affect her performance?
Kim faced injury setbacks earlier this season, including a shoulder injury that threatened her participation. Despite being medically cleared to compete, these struggles may have impacted her consistency and confidence during the event. Her attempt to land the difficult double-cork 1080 was a testament to her skill, but the falls in her final runs showed how injuries can influence performance at the highest level.
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What are Kim's prospects after this Olympic result?
Kim's near-miss at the 2026 Olympics may motivate her to come back stronger. She has already cemented her legacy with two gold medals, and her experience could help her adapt and improve for future competitions. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if she continues to compete and if she can reclaim her spot at the top of the sport.