Su Yiming Wins Bronze, Secures China's First Medal at 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics

Su Yiming Wins Bronze, Secures China's First Medal at 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics

In a thrilling conclusion to the men's big air final at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, Chinese snowboarder Su Yiming secured the bronze medal with a total score of 168.50 points. This marks a significant achievement, not only as his personal third Olympic medal but also as the first medal for the Chinese delegation at these Games.

Su Yiming is interviewed after winning the bronze medal in the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Su Yiming is interviewed after winning the bronze medal in the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.

The 21-year-old athlete, who won gold in the same event at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill throughout the competition. Despite facing intense pressure and a challenging field, Su delivered a series of impressive runs, including three attempts at the high-difficulty 1980-degree spin.

"This bronze medal makes me very happy," Su said in a post-competition interview. "I have now collected all three colors of Olympic medals. I will take off the burden and pursue the gold medal in the future!"

The victory was particularly poignant as Su became the first male snowboarder in Olympic history to win three medals (gold, silver, and bronze) across multiple Games. He is also the only athlete from the 12 competitors in the 2022 Beijing big air final to return and compete in Milan, showcasing his enduring talent and resilience.

The podium for the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, with Japanese athletes winning gold and silver, and Su Yiming (right) winning bronze for China.
The podium for the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, with Japanese athletes winning gold and silver, and Su Yiming (right) winning bronze for China.

Su's performance in Milan was a testament to his perseverance. After a difficult period battling injuries and personal challenges, he returned to the top of the sport. His bronze medal is a powerful symbol of his determination and the support of his team and country.

"This is absolutely amazing!" exclaimed one Weibo user. "Su Yiming has won the first medal for the Chinese team at these Olympics. What an inspiration!"

The final results showed Su finishing behind Japanese athletes Kimura Kira (gold, 179.50) and Kimata Ryoma (silver, 171.50). Despite some controversy over scoring in his final run, Su's consistent performance throughout the competition proved decisive.

A scoreboard showing the final results of the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, with Su Yiming in third place.
The final results of the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, with Su Yiming in third place.

Su's achievement extends beyond this single medal. He has now completed a unique Olympic trilogy, becoming the first male snowboarder to win gold, silver, and bronze medals. His success has inspired a new generation of Chinese athletes and brought significant attention to winter sports in the country.

"Congratulations to Su Yiming for winning the bronze medal," wrote another supporter on social media. "This is the first medal for the Chinese team at these Olympics. In two consecutive Winter Olympics, he has won one gold and one bronze in this event, inspiring everyone to hit the slopes. The best, little Ming!"

As Su Yiming stands on the podium, holding his bronze medal and waving to the cheering crowd, he represents not just personal victory but the growing strength and ambition of Chinese winter sports on the global stage.

Su Yiming kisses his bronze medal after the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Su Yiming kisses his bronze medal after the men's big air snowboarding event at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.