Zoe Atkin, representing Team GB, made a stunning impression by qualifying at the top in the women’s freestyle skiing halfpipe competition at Milano Cortina 2026 on Thursday, February 19. As the final approaches this Sunday, February 22, Atkin emerges as one of the leading contenders, backed by an impressive list of accomplishments that includes being the reigning world champion and an X-Games winner from just last month, as well as currently leading the World Cup tour.
Being the favorite can often bring immense pressure, particularly evident throughout the Winter Olympics in Italy. However, Zoe Atkin carries a unique advantage that could be pivotal in her pursuit of an elusive Olympic medal—her older sister, Izzy Atkin, is by her side. Izzy made history in PyeongChang 2018 as Great Britain’s first Olympic medalist in skiing after clinching a bronze in slopestyle.
Zoe recalls the emotional support she felt when watching her sister compete in South Korea, and now the roles have reversed as Izzy lends her encouragement to Zoe during this critical moment. “Yeah, my sister’s here, which is so exciting,” Zoe shared with Olympics.com following her qualification run. “My whole family is here, which is amazing.”
The Atkin family’s presence carries special significance this time, as Zoe reflects on the restrictions that prevented them from attending the Beijing 2022 Olympics due to COVID-19. She expressed her joy at having her family support her this time around, mentioning, “They’re super stoked to wave the flag and support, and it’s just amazing to see they were all waving little sticks with my face on it at the bottom of the slope.”
The encouragement from her sister and the rest of her family offers Zoe not just emotional support, but also valuable insights on handling high-pressure situations, which could prove crucial in her Olympic journey. With the encouragement of her loved ones and her exceptional track record, Zoe Atkin is poised to make a significant mark in the competition ahead.