Su’s journey to Olympic gold on his home snow has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by moments of breathtaking triumph as well as significant challenges. From the dazzling heights of his victory at Beijing 2022 to the setbacks he faced afterward, Su has demonstrated resilience and determination that make his story truly worth telling. His path has not been smooth—injuries and the pressures of sudden fame tested his resolve—but through perseverance and a renewed mindset, he has come back stronger. Now, as the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina approach, all eyes are on the young Chinese star once again, eager to see if he can replicate his past brilliance on the world’s biggest stage.
Reliving the Glorious Victory and Post-Olympic Challenges
The Beijing 2022 Triumph
In 2022, Su made history as a 17-year-old when he won Olympic gold on his home snow in Beijing, an achievement that captured worldwide attention. His performance was a showcase of talent, courage, and youthful energy, cementing his status as China’s emerging snowboarding icon. For many observers, his victory symbolized the rise of a new generation of athletes capable of competing at the highest levels on their home turf.
However, Olympic success brought with it a double-edged sword. The intense spotlight and expectations began to weigh heavily on Su, and the physical toll of training and competing resulted in a series of injuries. These setbacks, combined with the psychological pressures of fame at such a young age, began to affect his motivation. The thrill that once fueled his passion for the sport started to fade, prompting Su to take a step back from competition to recover both physically and mentally.
From Setback to Comeback
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Injuries and Disconnection
Following his golden victory, Su faced a challenging period marked by injuries that hampered his ability to train consistently. The physical setbacks necessitated time away from the slopes, and as he endured these struggles, he also grappled with the rush of sudden fame. The pressure to match or surpass his Olympic success created a mental strain, leaving him feeling lost and unsure about his future in snowboarding.
During this time, Su openly admitted to feeling disconnected from the sport that once brought him joy. His motivation waned, and he found it difficult to find the same excitement for competition that had once been second nature. This phase was critical for him, as it prompted a reevaluation of what truly mattered in his athletic career.
A New Perspective and Find of Purpose
Eventually, Su emerged from this challenging period with a fresh outlook. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the initial thrill of trying the sport for the first time—an emotion that shouldn’t be overshadowed by focusing solely on victories. For Su, the joy of snowboarding remains rooted in that raw feeling of excitement and discovery.
“I was lost after the Olympics because I was just a kid and didn’t know what was going on. I’m really happy to have rested and got my competition mentality back,” he explained. “The most important thing I’ve learnt is never to lose the feeling of the first time you try the sport, the excitement. You can’t always chase wins because feelings are just as important. Now I’m feeling good and looking to challenge for another big goal in the sport.”
This renewed perspective has reinvigorated Su’s passion, fueling his desire to aim higher and push his boundaries once again.
Looking Ahead Toward the 2026 Winter Olympics
Returning to the Top Scene
With a newfound clarity and a stronger mental game, Su returned to competition and demonstrated his resilience at the 2025 World Championships in Engadin, Switzerland. There, he secured a silver medal in slopestyle—a result that reaffirmed his status among the sport’s elite and rekindled hope for Olympic glory. His performance signaled that he’s not only physically ready but also mentally prepared to face the challenges of the upcoming Winter Games.
As Milan and Cortina prepare to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, Su is again in the spotlight. The anticipation surrounding his participation is high, given his status as a local hero and a talented contender for more medals. His recent performances have boosted confidence that he can deliver a memorable Olympic run, potentially adding to his already impressive medal collection.
Goals, Dreams, and the Future of Su’s Snowboarding Career
Chasing Multiple Olympic Golds
Su’s motivation remains unwavering, centered around a desire to dominate the big air and slopestyle events at the Olympics. His statement reveals a clear ambition: “I want one more, or maybe I’m trying for two more Olympic gold medals in big air and slopestyle. That is my biggest dream for now, and it is the best way for me.”
This goal underscores his determination to leave an indelible mark on the sport’s history. Still, Su emphasizes that beyond medals, his focus is on maintaining the pure joy of snowboarding and challenging himself to improve with every ride. His journey reflects a balance between competitive ambition and staying grounded in the love of the sport that first inspired him.
What’s Next for Su?
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, the world’s eyes will not only be on Su’s performance but also on his ability to handle the pressure that comes with being a defending Olympic champion and a hometown hero. His recent surge in confidence and performance suggests he is on the right trajectory, poised to add new chapters to his already compelling story.
Su’s experience over the past few years highlights the importance of mental resilience and the power of a positive mindset in elite sports. His story serves as inspiration for young athletes worldwide, illustrating that setbacks can transform into stepping stones toward greater achievements with the right outlook and determination.
In the end, Su’s journey illustrates that success is seldom linear — it’s shaped by adversity, reflection, and a relentless pursuit of personal and athletic growth. As he prepares for the next chapter in Milan and Cortina, expectations are high, but so is his motivation to not only win medals but to enjoy every moment on the slopes.
