Chloe Kim sets retirement plan before making Olympic snowboarding history in Milan

Chloe Kim, 25, has privately picked a retirement date after winning silver in the 2026 Olympic halfpipe and recovering from a recent shoulder injury. For bettors, this signals a potential shift in futures markets: back emerging favorite Choi Gaon for Beijing 2030 while avoiding long-term bets on Kim until she confirms plans; monitor official retirement notice and injury reports for odds movement.

Chloe Kim Signals End of an Era After Milan-Cortina Silver

Chloe Kim, who became the first woman to medal in three consecutive Olympic halfpipe events, revealed she has privately set a date to leave competitive snowboarding. The 25-year-old said the decision is firm as she balances career goals, family plans, and the physical toll of elite competition following a dislocated left shoulder sustained in training a month before the 2026 Games.

From Double Olympic Champion to 2026 Silver

Kim captured Olympic gold in 2018 and 2022 before taking silver at the 2026 Winter Games. Despite the podium finish, the veteran rider acknowledged the limits of longevity in a sport that demands constant progression and physical sacrifice. “I am 25 right now. I’d love to start a family... Once I set my mind to something, then that’s that,” she said.

Choi Gaon: The New Face of Olympic Halfpipe

The 17-year-old South Korean prodigy, Choi Gaon, won gold at Milan-Cortina and quickly emerged as the sport’s next leading figure. With multiple World Cup podiums and victories over the past two seasons, Choi entered the Games as a top-ranked contender and validated her status with a commanding Olympic debut.

What Choi’s Rise Means for the Halfpipe Field

Choi’s ascent points to a generational shift in women’s halfpipe. Her combination of technical skill, competitive results and composure at 17 positions her as a preeminent favorite for the next Olympic cycle, and she will likely carry greater expectations and scrutiny as the sport’s new standard-bearer.

Betting and Competitive Implications

Kim’s announced retirement plans and recent shoulder injury are likely to reshape betting markets and competitive outlooks. Futures and odds for the next Winter Games should move in favor of rising stars like Choi, while markets may shorten on other young contenders who can challenge her consistency. Punters should watch for an official retirement announcement and updates on Kim’s recovery before placing long-term bets.