Imagine witnessing a snowboarding legend reclaiming glory on home soil, while a teenage prodigy dominates the global stage. That's exactly what unfolded in Secret Garden, China, on November 29th, as Olympic champion Su Yiming delivered a jaw-dropping performance in the men's snowboard big air event. But here's where it gets even more thrilling: while Su was stealing the show, Japan's Mari Fukada, a rising star at just 19 years old, led a historic Japanese sweep of the women's podium, securing his fourth World Cup victory and first since December 2023.
Su, the 21-year-old Chinese phenom, kicked off the 2025-26 FIS Snowboard Park & Pipe season with a bang, achieving a combined score of 174.50 from just two of his three runs. His opening run, a breathtaking backside 1980 nose grab, set the tone for an unforgettable performance. He then upped the ante with a switch backside 1980 melon, earning a top score of 88.25. And this is the part most people miss: Su's victory wasn't just about the tricks; it was a triumphant comeback after a two-year podium drought and a grueling injury-plagued season.
Fellow Chinese athlete Ge Chunyu secured second place with a score of 159.50, making it a Chinese one-two finish. Reigning big air world champion Ryoma Kimata of Japan claimed the final podium spot with 158.50 points. For Su, this win was deeply personal. “This one means so much to me. It almost means everything,” he shared with the FIS, reflecting on his journey back to the top.
Controversy alert: While Su's victory was celebrated globally, some critics argue that the judging criteria for big air events favor high-risk tricks over technical precision. What do you think? Should the scoring system prioritize daring maneuvers or reward flawless execution? Let’s spark a debate in the comments!
For those new to snowboarding, big air is just one of several disciplines, each with its own unique challenges. Curious about the differences between slopestyle, halfpipe, and big air? Dive into the details here and become a snowboarding expert in no time!
