Chinese freestyle skier Li Fanghui made history by winning the women's halfpipe gold medal at the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) Freeski World Cup event in Calgary, Canada, on Saturday. This victory marks her first-ever World Cup win and secures her the season's halfpipe Crystal Globe.
In an unprecedented outcome, Li and Britain's Zoe Atkin both finished the season tied with 305 points each, making it the first time in Freeski World Cup history that two athletes have shared the Crystal Globe. During the event, Li delivered a dominant performance, scoring 90.50 points to secure the season title, while Atkin scored 87.75 points. Canada's Rachael Karker claimed the bronze with 87.00 points.
Reflecting on her achievement, Li said, \"I was really happy and excited. Last season, I didn't perform very well, but I've been making progress all year, and I'm proud of myself.\" She admitted that she didn't immediately realize she had secured the season title after her event.
Li's recent triumph follows her success at the 9th Asian Winter Games held in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, where she won the hosts' first gold medal of the Games in the women's halfpipe event on February 8. Shortly after her victory in Harbin, she traveled to Canada to compete in the World Cup, showcasing her remarkable consistency and dedication.
Reference(s):
Li Fanghui wins women's freeskiing halfpipe title at FIS World Cup
cgtn.com
