Coming within inches of making the 2002 Winter Olympics while being 15, Shaun White has come a long way. He qualified for the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics and won his first gold medal. But it never stopped right there. The US snowboarding legend bid adieu to his favorite sport today. Coming a long way ever since he made his debut back in the X Games in 2000, White was destined for the top.

Now, after nearly two decades of medals, records, and tricks, White finally says goodbye. Although he could not win a medal in his final Olympic appearance, White won many hearts in Beijing.

Shaun White says goodbye

After scoring a solid 85.00 in his second run, a grand-stand finish awaited him. However, things did not go as planned as he crashed out, despite completing his two clean tricks in the final run. The current crop of snowboarders is some of the best in the world in what they do.

Talented, poised, skilled, Ayumu Hirano is one snowboarder who takes that mantle. Nonetheless, White is someone who cannot be replaced. He spoke about his career in an emotional interview after his final run.

“I’m proud of the runs I put down, I’m proud to be here for my final goodbye. Thank you everybody watching, all my friends back home, thank you snowboarding. It’s been my life,” said White.

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Bowing out as a three-time Olympic gold medalist, the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022 proved otherwise. He will be the one to match for all snowboarders who want to win, however.

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White gets a standing ovation

Needing a huge score to get to the podium, White tried hard but could not muster up a good performance. Instead, he slid down the halfpipe to a rousing ovation from fans and athletes alike. None would’ve wished to see this day come. But now at 35, age is catching up with White and it’s about time he closes this chapter and moves on to the next one.

Those snowboarding tricks would remain in everybody’s minds as even though he retires today, legends are never forgotten. White is a stunning snowboarder who is the benchmark for every athlete who longs for greatness. For now, and forever, Shaun White will be remembered as the GOAT.

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