Choi Ga-on, just 18 years old, claimed Korea's first gold medal in snowboarding by defeating Chloe Kim in a stunning upset at the Winter Olympics, capturing widespread international attention.
Choi Ga-on, an 18-year-old from Korea, has made headlines by winning the gold medal in women's snowboard halfpipe at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. In a dramatic turn of events, she surpassed reigning champion Chloe Kim, who was expected to secure her third consecutive gold medal. Media outlets, including the BBC and NBC Sports, highlighted not only the competitive spirit of the event but also the symbolic shift in the sport, marking the rise of a new generation of talent in snowboarding.
During the competition held at Livigno Snow Park in Italy, Choi faced a challenging start, having stumbled during her first run. However, her determination and skill shone through as she successfully executed her routine in the third run, earning a score of 90.25, much to the astonishment of onlookers and commentators who praised her comeback. The victory represented a significant moment not just for Choi personally, but also for Korean snowboarding, which celebrated its first gold medal in the discipline.
In the aftermath of the competition, reactions from prominent media outlets illustrated the impact of Choi's win, with references to the end of Chloe Kim's dominance and the emergence of Choi as a new star in the sport. The emotional embrace between the two athletes post-competition was seen as a key moment, symbolizing the passing of the torch to the next generation. Overall, Choi Ga-on's victory is not only a personal achievement but also a historic milestone for Korean sports, setting the stage for future competitions.
