Japan Dominates Men's Snowboard Big Air at Milano Cortina 2026 with Gold and Silver

Japanese Duo Claims Top Honors in Livigno

Livigno, Italy – Japanese snowboarders Kira Kimura and Ryoma Kimata delivered a commanding performance in the men's big air event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Saturday, February 7, 2026, securing the gold and silver medals for Japan. The 21-year-old Kimura, making his Olympic debut, clinched the gold with a total score of 179.50 points. His compatriot, 23-year-old Kimata, earned the silver medal with 171.50 points.

The event, held at the Livigno Snow Park, saw China's Su Yiming, the defending Olympic champion from Beijing 2022, take home the bronze medal with a score of 168.50.

Kimura's Decisive Final Run

Kira Kimura's path to gold was marked by a powerful final run. After stumbling on his second attempt, which temporarily moved him out of medal contention, Kimura executed a flawless switch backside 1980, earning him 90.50 points – the highest single-trick score of the final. This propelled his overall score to 179.50, securing his first Olympic gold medal.

Kimura expressed his joy, stating, 'It was a dream I had since I was really little. I'm happy that this dream came true.' His performance highlighted Japan's growing strength in snowboarding, a trend attributed by some to extensive training facilities, including numerous air bags across the country.

Kimata Secures Silver, Su Yiming Takes Bronze

Ryoma Kimata, who entered the competition as the reigning big air world champion, maintained a strong presence throughout the final. Despite having a chance to surpass Kimura on his final jump, Kimata was unable to improve his score, ultimately settling for the silver medal.

China's Su Yiming, who had previously won gold in the event at the 2022 Games, added a bronze to his Olympic collection. American snowboard director Rick Bower commented on Japan's success, noting, 'They have like 20 air bags in Japan, and they're just pumping out amazing riders and it's showing.'