Olympic Skier Breezy Johnson Gets Engaged on the Slopes

The emotional proposal from boyfriend Connor Watkins was witnessed by crowds and cameras at the Winter Games in Italy.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Olympic gold medalist Breezy Johnson received a public marriage proposal from her boyfriend Connor Watkins at the finish line of her women's Super-G event at the Winter Games in Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy. Watkins got down on one knee and presented Johnson with a ring and a piece of wood etched with a Taylor Swift quote. Despite Johnson suffering a minor crash during the race, the couple celebrated their engagement, which was congratulated by Swift herself.

Why it matters

Johnson's public engagement highlights the personal lives of elite athletes and how they balance their careers with their relationships. The proposal also generated significant media attention and fan interest, showcasing the popularity of both Johnson and her new fiancé.

The details

Watkins, who works in construction and lives in Salt Lake City, had reportedly been planning the proposal for over a year. He told NBC News that he was "really nervous" but wanted Johnson to "do well, but I just wanted her to be safe, too." Despite Johnson's minor crash during the race, the couple were able to celebrate their engagement as planned.

  • On Thursday, February 13, 2026, Breezy Johnson received the proposal from Connor Watkins at the finish line of the women's Super-G event at the Winter Games in Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy.
  • In December 2022, Johnson told Team USA that she preferred to focus on her sport rather than discussing her personal life and boyfriend.

The players

Breezy Johnson

An Olympic gold medal-winning skier who recently came out as bisexual and prefers to keep her personal life private, focusing instead on her athletic career.

Connor Watkins

Breezy Johnson's boyfriend, who works in construction and lives in Salt Lake City. He proposed to Johnson at the finish line of her event at the Winter Games.

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What they’re saying

“You've worked so hard and achieved so much, and yet you still find the time to love me, to make me feel special, and most importantly, you help me love myself. There's only one way I want to spend the rest of my life, and that's by your side. I love you, Breezy. Will you marry me?”

— Connor Watkins (Today)

“When you make mistakes like that in ski racing, you kind of feel stupid and you just kind of want to go talk to your friends and family. And, yeah, seeing him was really exciting. And then just everything else is crazy.”

— Breezy Johnson (Today)

What’s next

After their celebrations in Cortina, the couple said they hope to enjoy Livigno together.

The takeaway

Johnson's public engagement showcases how elite athletes can balance their demanding careers with their personal lives, while also highlighting the growing visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ athletes in sports.