American snowboarder Chloe Kim faces a significant setback in her preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The two-time Olympic champion suffered a serious shoulder injury during training in Switzerland last week, casting doubt on her competitive schedule.
Injury Update Brings Mixed Emotions
Chloe Kim recently addressed her concerned fans through an Instagram post. She provided details about her physical condition and expressed both relief and disappointment about the situation.
"There are two ways this injury could have happened," Kim explained. "The way I experienced it is less severe than the alternative, so I'm really happy about that."
However, the athlete acknowledged the challenging road ahead. "Obviously, I'm really disappointed that I can't snowboard until right before the Olympics, which is going to be hard," she continued. "I haven't gotten nearly the amount of practice repetitions that I would have liked, but that's okay."
Competition Schedule Disrupted
The shoulder injury will force Kim to miss several important events in the coming weeks. Her competitive absence begins immediately with this weekend's Laax Open in Switzerland.
The disruption extends further into her winter schedule. Kim will also be unable to participate in the Winter X Games in Aspen, Colorado. This prestigious event is scheduled for the end of January, representing another significant competition missed during her Olympic preparation period.
Support System in Place
While facing this challenging start to her Olympic year, Chloe Kim has found strong support from her boyfriend, Myles Garrett. The Cleveland Browns defensive star has traveled to Switzerland to be with the injured athlete during her recovery.
Garrett was spotted arriving in Switzerland just hours after Kim shared her injury update. The couple has been dating for approximately one year, with their relationship capturing public attention last November when they shared a kiss on the sidelines during a football game.
Despite their demanding professional schedules - Garrett as an NFL player and Kim as an Olympic athlete - the pair continues to prioritize their relationship. Their mutual support demonstrates how they navigate the pressures of elite sports careers while maintaining their personal connection.
Looking Toward 2026
Chloe Kim's injury comes at a crucial time as athletes worldwide intensify their preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Switzerland. The snowboarder had been expected to be a strong contender for medals, building on her previous Olympic successes.
While the recovery timeline presents challenges, Kim's update suggests she remains determined to compete when the Games arrive. Her positive outlook about the injury's severity indicates she believes she can overcome this obstacle with proper rehabilitation and training.
The sports community will watch closely as Kim works to return to snowboarding form. Her journey from injury recovery to potential Olympic competition will undoubtedly inspire fans who have followed her career since her breakthrough performances.
