China’s Yang Wenlong secured his first world-level podium finish, taking home the bronze medal at the Snowboard and Freestyle Skiing Big Air World Cup held at Shougang Park in Beijing on Sunday.
Yang, 25, showcased his best form as he landed a backside 1800 on his second run, scoring an impressive 81.25 points. This performance propelled him to second place after the run, just behind Japan’s Hiroto Ogiwara.
“I did not perform well over the last few years because I was too nervous to finish my moves, but I’m in good shape this season,” Yang said after the event. “Competing in front of my friends and all the home fans encouraged me a lot. Compared to last year’s strategy, I made some adjustments by reducing some difficulty and trying to land solidly during each run.”
Despite stiff competition, Yang maintained his composure and finished with a total of 159.25 points, earning him the bronze medal. “I feel really happy, but I’m also sober,” he added. “For me, the bronze is my first medal at a world-class event, but I think it’s only a start. I will try to maintain my good form and get ready for the 2026 Milan Olympics.”
The gold medal went to Hiroto Ogiwara of Japan, who clinched the victory with a total of 169.50 points. Italy’s Ian Matteoli secured the silver with 165.50 points, making history by landing the first-ever frontside 2160 at a World Cup event, scoring a remarkable 97.75 points in one of his runs.
Yang’s compatriot, Su Yiming, who won gold at the 2022 Winter Olympics in the same event and venue, struggled in his first two runs and finished in 10th place.
In the women’s finals, Britain’s Mia Brookes topped the podium with 179.75 points. Japan’s Mari Fukada took silver with 176.75 points, while Austria’s Anna Gasser claimed bronze with 169.00 points.
Yang’s achievement marks a significant milestone in his career and serves as an inspiration for aspiring snowboarders in China and around the world.
Reference(s):
Yang takes bronze in Snowboard and Freestyle Skiing Big Air World Cup
cgtn.com
