“He Was Blowing Up” Despite Undergoing Two Open-Heart Surgeries as an Infant, Tony Hawk’s Valuable Life Lessons Put Shaun White on the Path of Greatness
Follow Us
via Getty
PYEONGCHANG-GUN, SOUTH KOREA – FEBRUARY 14: Shaun White of USA takes 1st place during the Snowboarding Men’s Halfpipe Finals at Pheonix Snow Park on February 14, 2018 in Pyeongchang-gun, South Korea. (Photo by Laurent Salino/Agence Zoom/Getty Images)
Shaun White established his name in snowboarding after winning three medals at Summer Olympics. This success hasn’t been easy for him. After receiving the diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot, Shaun underwent two heart surgeries. In an interview with Graham Bensinger, Shaun spoke openly about his heart surgeries.
These surgeries did not deter him from trying to achieve his dreams. When Shaun was 8 years old, seeing Tony skate in the same skate park motivated Shaun. The snowboarding legend then began to practice skating and word of his talent soon spread. In an AMA session, Shaun spoke candidly about what he learned from Tony Hawk
Shaun White’s Candid views on Tony Hawk
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Shaun told an incident where Tony said that Shaun should be himself instead of trying to be the next Tony Hawk. He also narrated how he learned from Tony how to stay the same person despite the success, media pressure, and fame.
Trending
Defeated in Season-Debut, Sha’Carri Richardson Set for Next Race While Jamaicans Are Still Absent
April 22, 2024 06:20 PM EDT
Adopted Simone Biles Freaked out Gymnastics Team After Announcing Family’s Complicated Scenario: “Those Are My Grandparents”
April 22, 2024 06:15 PM EDT
“Ricky Starks and”: Triple H Reportedly Set to Sign Three Top AEW Talents From Tony Khan Following Dynasty
April 23, 2024 06:29 AM EDT
Despite Trading Zach Wilson, Sean Payton Rumored to “Throw Away” Broncos’ 2024 to Secure Shedeur Sanders as Russell Wilson’s Replacement
April 23, 2024 05:14 AM EDT
Sha’Carri Richardson Loses Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year in Debut Nomination to Spanish Football Icon
April 22, 2024 08:03 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
In another talk, Shaun opened up about how Tony trained him for seven years. “He was blowing up…and to see how he interacted with fans and balance his life…”, Shaun recalled. This reflects how Tony set an example for Shaun to balance his life and career. Further continuing, Shaun expressed how being near Tony during that time was really good for him.
Another aspect that Shaun also disclosed was how Tony took him under his wing and made him observe a lot about the sport. The snowboarding legend also revealed how Tony Hawk would take him on tours so that he could watch and learn.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Shaun also revealed that in the beginning, he was terrified of approaching Tony Hawk. Later, after Tony saw his talent, he gave him the invitation to see a skating demo. Continuing, Shaun mentioned that this led to a friendship between them and how Tony was the perfect person.
Latest News Update on Shaun White
Recently, Shaun received the Golden Goat award at the Gold medal Gala. Currently, he is focusing on actively promoting his brand Whitespace.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch Now: Shaun White and Nina Dobrey Shares Happy Moments From a Friend’s Wedding
Shaun White’s journey proves that achieving success comes at a huge cost. Tony Hawk’s role in Shaun White’s success shows how sports can forge unforgettable bonds. As sports fans, we look forward to seeing Shaun and Tony achieving more laurels in the future.
Written by:
Edited by:
Pritam Priyedarshi