As the world anticipates the 2026 Winter Olympics, champion snowboarder Chloe Kim is navigating one of the most mentally taxing phases of her career. Away from the public eye, she has found an unexpected pillar of strength in her relationship with NFL defensive end Myles Garrett. Their bond, built quietly on mutual respect and presence, is proving to be a vital anchor for Kim as she prepares for another shot at Olympic glory.
A Quiet Foundation of Respect
Chloe Kim admits she knew very little about American football or its stars before meeting Garrett. Growing up in a Korean household, her sports knowledge was limited to global icons like Tom Brady and LeBron James. What began without any preconceived notions has blossomed into deep admiration. For Kim, Garrett's impact isn't tied to his athletic fame but to his character away from the stadium lights.
"Honestly, Myles is such an incredible athlete," Kim shared. "I’m constantly inspired and in awe of him and how hard he works and how incredibly kind he is." She emphasizes that his kindness is authentic, not a performance for the public. This genuine quality, coupled with his formidable work ethic, has left a profound impression on her.
Steadiness Amidst Olympic Pressure
The offseason, Kim reveals, is often the hardest part mentally. Anxiety begins to build long before competition starts. After openly battling mental health struggles for years and undergoing intensive therapy following the 2022 Olympics, Kim has learned to value clear and supportive relationships.
In this context, Garrett's steady presence carries significant weight. As Kim enters the demanding stretch towards the 2026 Games, his support provides crucial grounding. She describes feeling lucky to have him in her life, a simple yet powerful sentiment that underscores the shift in her support system. "I’m really lucky to be part of his life and lucky that he’s part of mine," Kim said. "Yeah, we’re happy."
Lessons in Confidence and Support
Chloe Kim's journey has taught her that confidence isn't the absence of fear, but the knowledge of who stands beside you when fear appears. Myles Garrett represents that reliable, quiet, and supportive presence. His role is not about hype or attention; it's about simply being there.
For an athlete who has faced immense pressure on the world's biggest stage, this kind of unwavering support is invaluable. As she trains for the upcoming Olympic season, Kim carries with her the hard-earned lesson that true strength often comes from the quiet, supportive figures in the background. Their relationship, built on a foundation of genuine respect and kindness, stands as a testament to finding stability away from the spotlight's glare.
