White Delivers Glowing Assessment (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Italy – U.S. snowboarding sensation Chloe Kim positioned herself for history after dominating qualifying at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
White Delivers Glowing Assessment
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Shaun White offered strong praise for Kim during an interview with NBC News’ Tom Llamas.[1][2] He described her as “setting the bar high,” highlighting her influence on the sport ahead of Thursday’s women’s halfpipe final at Livigno Snow Park.
White, who retired after securing his own trio of halfpipe golds, spoke from experience. His words underscored Kim’s commanding presence in qualifying, where she posted the top score of 90.25 despite a recent injury setback.[3]
The endorsement came amid growing excitement for Kim’s bid to become the first snowboarder to win three consecutive Olympic golds in the event.
Overcoming a Shoulder Setback
Kim nearly sat out the Games after tearing the labrum in her left shoulder during training in Switzerland last month. Medical clearance allowed her to compete, and she delivered a flawless qualifying run.
She reported her shoulder felt “pretty good” and had not dislocated since the injury. Post-Olympics surgery awaits, but Kim focused on the moment. “I’m just happy to be here because for a little bit, a couple of months ago, it wasn’t looking too certain,” she said.[3]
Her confidence shone through. “I’m really happy with who I’ve become. Going into these Games, I felt really at ease and calm. I know what I’m here to do.”
A Legacy of Dominance
Kim first captured gold in PyeongChang 2018 at age 17, becoming the youngest woman to win in the discipline. She defended her title in Beijing 2022, adding to her resume as a three-time world champion and eight-time X Games winner.[3]
Now 25, she enters the final as the clear favorite. Her qualifying performance left competitors trailing, signaling another potential masterclass.
- PyeongChang 2018: Gold at 17 years old
- Beijing 2022: Repeat gold
- Multiple world and X Games titles
- Top qualifier in Milan-Cortina 2026
Fierce Field Awaits in Final
Japan’s Sara Shimizu earned second in qualifying, while American Maddie Mastro took third. Both riders posted strong scores but trailed Kim’s lead.
The final on February 13 promises high-flying action in the halfpipe. Kim expressed focus over expectation: “I’m just going to do what I came here to do, and if they decide to give it to me, then awesome.”
Team USA eyes more hardware, building on early medals in other events.
Key Takeaways
- Chloe Kim leads the field despite a shoulder injury recovery.
- Shaun White praises her as “setting the bar high.”
- Victory would mark unprecedented three-peat in Olympic halfpipe.
Kim’s journey blends resilience, skill, and poise, with White’s nod elevating the stakes. As the final approaches, she stands ready to etch her name deeper into Olympic lore. What do you think her chances are? Tell us in the comments.
