Legendary snowboarder Shaun White, one of the greatest snowboarders of all time, announced his retirement at the age of 35 after the 2022 Winter Olympics. While he will compete in the 2022 Olympics, he will not continue competitive snowboarding after. Shaun White is a three-time gold medalist, including first place in the half-pipe at the 2006 Torino Games, Vancouver in 2010, and Pyeongchang in 2018. This will be the fifth and last Olympics Shaun White will compete in, according to a press conference on February 5.
Shaun White is confident and excited about going into the final Olympic games of his life. According to hypebeast, Shaun White states, “After the Olympics I don’t compete much … as there’s so much pressure weighing on you and that relief is warranted. I usually take the season off to get excited again, but this will be my last competition.” White also said the injuries he has racked up over time, including ankle, knee and back issues, were “little signs” that led him to this decision. Clearly, Shaun White is aging out of the sport and it is about time for him to part ways.
Next Chapter
Shaun White has had an amazing career. He doesn't plan to hang up the snowboard quite yet. According to Us Magazine, Shaun White says, “I definitely don’t think I’ll be leaving the sport anytime soon.” He wants to continue snowboarding for fun with his girlfriend, Nina Dobrev.
Great Accomplishments
Shaun White is a five-time Olympian and three-time gold medalist. He has the world record for the most gold medals won as a snowboarder, as well as the most X-Games gold medals. Shaun White turned professional at age 13 and has been famous ever since.
Shaun White’s Last Run
Shaun White’s last run was a very emotional one. He nailed the first trick, then flunked the second one. He then skated down to applause from everyone in the crowd. White missed the podium with a 4th place finish to end his Olympic career. According to CNN, Shaun White says, "A lot of emotions are hitting me right now, the cheering from the crowd, some kind words from my fellow competitors at the bottom, I'm so happy."
Shaun White had one of the best careers a professional snowboarder could ever have. White had many accomplishments and many things to be proud of. Shaun White doesnt know what he'll have planned in the future, but it will be exciting to see.