Olympic Skateboarding Preview: USA, Japan, Australia Battle for Gold

The 2024 Paris Olympics will showcase a competitive field of skateboarders from the U.S., Japan, and Australia, featuring many returning medalists from Tokyo and rising young stars. The skateboarding events kick off on July 27, promising intense battles.

In the men’s street event, Japan’s top skaters, including Yuto Horigome, Ginwoo Onodera, and Sora Shirai, will return, with Horigome aiming to defend his gold medal from Tokyo. American Nyjah Huston, a favorite in Tokyo, is also a strong contender, having recently won at the X Games. Jagger Eaton, who secured bronze in Tokyo despite a broken ankle, is back in form and a potential podium threat.

The men’s park event could see a possible American sweep with Tate Carew, Gavin Bottger, and Tom Schaar all ranked highly. Australian Keegan Palmer, the gold medalist from Tokyo, and Brazilian Pedro Barros, the Tokyo silver medalist, are key competitors. Andy Macdonald, at 51, is the oldest park skateboarder in Paris and sees his Olympic qualification as a personal victory.

In the women’s street competition, Japan’s Coco Yoshizawa, Liz Akama, and Funa Nakayama are expected to dominate, with strong performances at recent events. Brazilian Rayssa Leal, who won silver in Tokyo, and Australian Chloe Covell are also in contention. The U.S. will be represented by Paige Heyn, Poe Pinson, and Mariah Duran.

For women’s park, 15-year-old Cocona Hiraki will seek to improve on her Tokyo silver, while Australian Arisa Trew, who won the 2023 World Park Championships, will make her Olympic debut. Sky Brown, who earned bronze in Tokyo, is returning after recovery from an injury. U.S. skaters Bryce Wettstein, Ruby Lilley, and Minna Stess are also eager to compete.