Zoe Atkin wins halfpipe bronze to seal Team GB’s best Winter Olympics
Zoe Atkin has claimed a bronze medal in the freestyle skiing halfpipe at Milano-Cortina 2026, securing Team GB’s most successful Winter Games in history.
The 23-year-old produced a brilliant display in Livigno to reach the podium, four years after finishing ninth on her Olympic debut in Beijing.
Her success adds to the family collection, mirroring the bronze medal won by her older sister Izzy in the slopestyle event at PyeongChang 2018.
Atkin had arrived in Italy as a heavy favourite, having recently won X Games gold and topping the qualification standings.
Sibling rivalry drives success
The younger Atkin sister revealed she had left a specific gap on her trophy shelf in Utah before travelling to the Games to “manifest” the result.
While she ultimately matched her sibling’s achievement, friendly rivalry remains a key motivator for the pair.
“Obviously part of me wanted to one-up her and have a better medal than she does,” Atkin said.
“But I’ll accept the bronze because I think it’s really cute that we have, like, little twin medals.”
Izzy was present in Italy to witness the moment, creating what the medallist described as a “full circle moment” for the family.
Scoring debate surrounds final
Despite the celebrations, the final standings generated significant discussion regarding the judging criteria.
Defending champion Eileen Gu took gold for China, while her compatriot Li Fanghui edged the Briton into third place by just half a point.
Many observers felt the scoring did not adequately reward the former X Games champion’s superior amplitude.
Atkin reached heights of 5.4m above the halfpipe, soaring significantly higher than her podium rivals.
Redemption and future goals
The podium finish offers immense relief following the disappointment of her ninth-place finish at the 2022 Beijing Games.
A solid first run in the final eased the pressure, ensuring she remained in medal contention despite a fall on her second attempt.
“Once I landed that first run, the relief I felt was so palpable,” she admitted.
With a bronze secured and the British team celebrating a historic medal haul, eyes are already turning toward the ultimate goal at the French Alps in 2030.
