Chloe Kim Eyes Third Straight Olympic Gold

The two-time gold medalist overcomes injury to chase history at the 2026 Winter Games.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Chloe Kim, the two-time Olympic gold medalist in snowboard halfpipe, is gearing up for a shot at making history at the 2026 Winter Games. Despite a recent shoulder injury that kept her off the slopes for weeks, the 25-year-old is determined to become the first person ever to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the event. Kim, who started snowboarding at age 4, has faced challenges both on and off the slopes, including dealing with racist comments early in her career and battling mental health issues after her initial Olympic triumph. But she's learned to embrace the ups and downs, and is now focused on enjoying the journey as she chases more Olympic glory.

Why it matters

Chloe Kim's pursuit of a third straight Olympic gold medal in snowboard halfpipe is a remarkable feat that would cement her legacy as one of the greatest athletes in the sport's history. Her openness about her mental health struggles also makes her an inspirational figure, particularly for young Asian American athletes who can see themselves represented at the highest levels of competition.

The details

In January, Kim dislocated her shoulder and tore her labrum during a practice run, an injury that will keep her off the slopes until right before the 2026 Olympics. Despite the setback, the number-one ranked women's halfpipe snowboarder in the world is determined to make history. If she wins gold, she'll become the first person ever to claim three consecutive Olympic titles in the event. Kim, who won gold in 2018 and 2022, will first have to navigate the qualifying rounds before advancing to the finals, where she'll have three runs to earn the top spot on the podium.

  • Kim dislocated her shoulder and tore her labrum in January 2026, about a month before the 2026 Winter Olympics.
  • The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in February 2026.

The players

Chloe Kim

A 25-year-old American snowboarder who is the two-time defending Olympic gold medalist in the halfpipe event. She is aiming to become the first person ever to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the event.

Rick Bower

Kim's coach of over 10 years, who has helped her develop several tricks that only one or two other athletes are doing.

Myles Garrett

Kim's boyfriend, an NFL player who has been helping her through her recent shoulder injury.

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What they’re saying

“Chloe's got several tricks that only one or two other athletes are doing. She's definitely the woman to beat out there.”

— Rick Bower, Kim's coach

“I will be good to go for the Olympics - I'll just have to wear a really sexy shoulder brace.”

— Chloe Kim (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in Kim's case will decide on Tuesday whether to allow her out on bail as she recovers from her shoulder injury.

The takeaway

Despite facing a major injury setback just weeks before the 2026 Olympics, Chloe Kim remains determined to make history by becoming the first person to win three consecutive gold medals in the snowboard halfpipe event. Her openness about her mental health struggles has also made her an inspirational figure, particularly for young Asian American athletes.