Chloe Kim Dominates Olympic Halfpipe Qualifying

Snowboarding star returns from injury to easily advance to finals

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Chloe Kim, the two-time defending Olympic gold medalist in snowboard halfpipe, showed no signs of rust from a recent shoulder injury as she easily qualified for the finals at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Livigno, Italy. Kim finished first in the qualifying round, nailing her first run and showcasing her signature tricks like a massive big air leap and a 1080-degree spin. Despite the injury setback just four weeks ago, Kim looked poised to become the first snowboarder to win three straight Olympic gold medals.

Why it matters

Chloe Kim's dominance in the halfpipe event has made her one of the biggest stars of the Winter Olympics. Her quest for a historic third straight gold medal will be a major storyline at these Games, as she looks to cement her legacy as one of the greatest snowboarders of all time.

The details

Kim, 25, dropped in the middle of the qualifying round and immediately separated herself from the rest of the field. Her run included a massive 13-foot big air jump with a showy board grab, as well as a 1080-degree spin while riding switch. Despite being just four weeks removed from a shoulder injury that disrupted her training, Kim looked sharp and in control throughout her qualifying run.

  • Kim suffered the shoulder injury during a training run in Switzerland four weeks ago.
  • Kim returned to the halfpipe just two weeks ago, marking her first meaningful run since last March.
  • The women's halfpipe qualifying took place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Chloe Kim

A 25-year-old American snowboarder and two-time defending Olympic gold medalist in the halfpipe event.

Maddie Mastro

An American snowboarder who qualified for the finals with a strong showing in the qualifying round, including opening both of her runs with double cork tricks.

Myles Garrett

The Cleveland Browns defensive end and Chloe Kim's boyfriend, who was seen celebrating with her after her qualifying run.

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What they’re saying

“I might be better at snowboarding than I am at walking”

— Chloe Kim (Stamford Advocate)

“Muscle memory is a thing”

— Chloe Kim (Stamford Advocate)

“She's been very well behaved. So I'm grateful for that”

— Chloe Kim (Stamford Advocate)

What’s next

Kim will look to become the first snowboarder to win three straight Olympic gold medals when she competes in the finals on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The takeaway

Chloe Kim's dominant qualifying performance, coming just weeks after a shoulder injury, underscores her unparalleled talent and experience in the halfpipe. Her quest for a historic third straight Olympic gold medal will be must-watch viewing at these Winter Games.