Chloe Kim, the two-time Olympic halfpipe gold medalist, has suffered a dislocated shoulder while training in Switzerland, just one month before the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. At 25, Kim is aiming to become the first female snowboarder to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the halfpipe.
“I hate that I have to make this video,” Kim said in an Instagram post. “I took the silliest fall and that ultimately resulted in me dislocating my shoulder. I am not in that much pain… I just don’t want it to keep popping out.”
Injury Details and Recovery
Kim will undergo an MRI scan on Friday to assess the severity of the dislocation. While she described the pain as manageable, the 25-year-old is focused on ensuring her shoulder heals fully before the Olympics.
“I feel really good about where my snowboarding is at right now. The minute I get it cleared and I’m good to go, I should be fine. I’m just hoping that doesn’t take too long,” Kim added.
Despite the setback, Kim remains optimistic about her preparations and is determined to defend her title at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games.
Chloe Kim’s Olympic Legacy
Kim became a global sensation when she won her first Olympic halfpipe gold in Pyeongchang 2018 at just 17 years old. She repeated the feat at Beijing 2022, cementing her status as one of snowboarding’s greatest athletes.
Her goal for 2026 is historic: she hopes to become the first woman in history to secure three consecutive Olympic golds in snowboarding halfpipe, a feat that would solidify her legacy in winter sports.
Kim is widely celebrated for her technical skill, consistency, and pioneering impact on female snowboarding worldwide.
Impact on US Snowboarding Team
Kim’s injury comes at a critical time for Team USA, which relies on her medal-winning experience to boost the nation’s chances in the snowboarding events. The team’s coaching staff and medical team are monitoring her progress closely to ensure she can compete safely at peak performance.
While recovery timelines are still being determined, Kim’s resilience and dedication suggest she has a strong chance to return to full strength before the Winter Games begin.
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