SF Native Eileen Gu Advances to Big Air Final in Freestyle Skiing

The defending gold medalist placed second in qualifiers and will compete for another medal on Monday.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Eileen Gu, a San Francisco native competing for China, placed second in Saturday's women's freestyle skiing big air qualifiers, advancing to the final on Monday. Gu nailed her first jump but crashed on her second run, requiring her to stay upright on her third and final attempt.

Why it matters

Eileen Gu is a rising star in freestyle skiing and a source of pride for the San Francisco community. Her success at the Olympics helps promote the sport and inspire the next generation of athletes.

The details

Gu, the defending gold medalist in big air, finished with the second-best score in the qualifiers. She was able to land her first jump successfully but then crashed on her second run, putting pressure on her to perform well on her third and final attempt in order to advance to the final round.

  • Gu placed second in Saturday's women's freestyle skiing big air qualifiers.
  • The big air final will take place on Monday.

The players

Eileen Gu

A San Francisco native competing for China in freestyle skiing, and the defending gold medalist in big air.

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What’s next

Gu will compete in the big air final on Monday, where she will have another chance to win a medal for China.

The takeaway

Eileen Gu's success at the Olympics is a source of pride for the San Francisco community and helps promote the growth of freestyle skiing as a sport.