Ryoyu Kobayashi Embraces Uncertainty Ahead of Third Winter Olympics
Olympic gold medalist Ryoyu Kobayashi knows ski jumping never follows a script. As he gears up for his third consecutive Winter Games, the Japanese star says years of experience have taught him one clear lesson. Plans often fall apart when you launch yourself down the icy ramp.
The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics are just weeks away. Expectations surrounding Kobayashi are soaring once again. He arrives in Italy as the reigning Olympic champion in the normal hill event. He also captured a silver medal in the large hill competition at the Beijing Games four years ago.
Focusing on the Jump, Not the Pressure
Speaking to reporters recently, Kobayashi explained his current philosophy. He said the sport is full of sudden challenges. Wind conditions and timing can shift everything in mere seconds. Winning based purely on pre-planned calculations is incredibly tough.
"Instead of chasing specific numbers or distances, I want to deliver a powerful and exciting jump," Kobayashi stated. "A jump that lifts the crowd. If I can achieve that, then a medal may follow naturally. Only then will we see its color."
At 29 years old, he stands as one of the most decorated ski jumpers of his generation. He is a two-time overall World Cup champion and a three-time Four Hills Tournament winner. Yet, he believes the sport's unpredictable nature means nothing is guaranteed on the Olympic stage.
The Toughest Opponent Is Himself
Kobayashi revealed that his greatest rival is not another athlete. It is himself. He stressed that results depend entirely on his own performance on the given day. Can he deliver his best jump, or perhaps something even better?
"I try not to overthink my rivals or the weather," he added. "My main goal is to stay completely focused on my own execution. The jump itself is what matters most."
The champion also opened up about dealing with competitive nerves. He identified the most stressful moment. It usually arrives just before the second jump. Turning around with a potential victory on the line creates intense anxiety.
Managing Nerves and External Noise
Kobayashi described his method for handling pressure. He tries to block out all distractions. He concentrates solely on the task he needs to perform. He admitted that hearing loud cheers for other jumpers can increase his nervousness.
However, he also finds that feeling exciting. It serves as a strong motivation. The energy from the crowd pushes him to perform at his peak.
Away from the competition hill, Kobayashi shared his thoughts on a recent development. He expressed disappointment over Japan's decision to withdraw Sapporo's bid for the 2030 Winter Olympics.
"Hosting the Games at home creates historic moments," he said. "These are memories that live on for generations. From an athlete's perspective, it would have been very special to create such moments through ski jumping in Japan."
As the world watches, Ryoyu Kobayashi prepares not for a predictable outcome, but for a moment where his best jump must speak for itself.
