While the world knows Chloe Kim as the fearless snowboarder with two Olympic gold medals, there's a whole other arena where her competitive fire burns just as bright. Away from the halfpipe, the champion is deeply immersed in the world of video games, finding joy, connection, and a mental reset in virtual competitions.
Gaming: A Childhood Passion Turned Lifeline
Kim's love for gaming isn't a recent development tied to her fame or brand partnerships. It's a sentiment rooted in her childhood, shaped by her older sisters during summers away from the snow. She credits them for introducing her to iconic franchises like Pokémon, Mario Kart, and Super Smash Bros., which she views as pieces of her personal history, not just entertainment.
Today, her Nintendo Switch 2 is a constant travel companion, always ready for action in a "really cute" pink case that showcases her playful personality. She describes gaming as a crucial part of her downtime, stating plainly, "I’m definitely always playing games."
A "Nerdy" Circle and a Star-Studded Rivalry
Kim proudly describes her inner circle as "nerdy," filled with friends who enjoy fun rivalries and marathon gaming sessions. This competitive streak beautifully extends to her romantic life with Cleveland Browns NFL star Myles Garrett. The couple, who have been romantically linked since May 2025, often engage in heated virtual races.
With a laugh, Kim admitted, "even my boyfriend, he's so good at video games, so it's just fun." Their chemistry is visible in affectionate social media exchanges and translates into spirited gaming competitions in private.
The Mental Game Ahead of a Historic "Three-Peat"
As Kim sets her sights on the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, where she aims for a historic third consecutive gold medal in the halfpipe—a "three-peat"—gaming serves a vital purpose. It acts as both a companion and a pressure-valve, offering a mental escape from the intense training regimen.
She confirmed that the Olympic Village is also a hub for gamers, revealing there’s "1000% gaming among athletes." However, for the upcoming Games, she plans to stay with her family, which she jokes might make the at-home competition even fiercer.
For Chloe Kim, video games are far more than a simple pastime. They are a thread connecting her to her past, a way to bond with loved ones like her sisters and Myles Garrett, a tool for mental preparation, and perhaps, a secret ingredient in the mindset of a champion.
