Chinese freestyle skiing star Gu Ailing claimed the silver medal in the women’s freeski big air at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. She competed in heavy snowfall and shifting winds. The tough weather tested every athlete’s control and timing.
The 22-year-old defending champion finished with a total score of 179.00 points. Canada’s Megan Oldham won gold with 180.75 points. Italy’s Flora Tabanelli earned bronze in front of home fans.Gu started strong with a clean and confident first jump. She scored 90.00 points and moved into early contention. However, she slipped slightly on her second landing. That attempt brought 61.25 points and increased the pressure.
In the final round, Gu stayed calm. She delivered a technically difficult jump with sharp rotation and a steady landing. Judges awarded her 89.00 points. That score secured her place on the podium.With this result, Gu now owns five Winter Olympic medals. This is the highest total by any woman in freeski events at the Games. Her record further strengthens her legacy in the sport.
Additionally, after the competition, Gu said she kept her expectations balanced. It was her first big air event in four years. She focused on skiing well rather than thinking about medals.“The expectations were — I wouldn’t say low, but I was just trying to take it one step at a time going into my first big air competition in four years and just go out there and ski and see what happens,” she said.
Gu previously won gold in the same event at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. She was one of the standout athletes of those Games. Her success inspired many young winter sports fans in China.The Milan-Cortina event was delayed by one hour because of heavy snowfall. Visibility and landing conditions were difficult. Still, Gu maintained strong execution across her runs.
The competition also took place on the first day of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse. Gu said she felt happy to win a medal on such a special day. She wished everyone success in the new year.After her silver medal finish, the news spread quickly online.
The topic climbed to the top of trending discussions on Sina Weibo. Fans praised her determination and ability to perform under pressure.Gu’s latest Olympic medal confirms her consistency at the highest level. It also highlights China’s continued progress in freestyle skiing on the world stage.
