Xu Mengtao Wins Silver Medal at Freestyle Skiing World Championships
Xu Mengtao claimed the silver medal in the women's aerials event at the 2025 Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding World Championships, marking her first World Championship medal in six years. In the final round of the competition, Xu performed a difficult 4.293 move but landed slightly unstable, scoring 99.16 points to secure the silver medal. This achievement is a testament to her dedication and perseverance, as she has now medaled in every one of her seven World Championship appearances since her debut in 2009.
30 March 2025
American skier Ashley Kuhn took home the gold medal, while Chinese athletes Chen Xueting and Shao Qi finished fourth and sixth, respectively. Xu, known for her consistency and skill in the sport, opted for a challenging 4.293 difficulty move in her second and final jump. Although she landed slightly unstable, her overall performance garnered 99.16 points, a respectable score that unfortunately placed her behind the gold medalist.
This medal marks a significant milestone for Xu, as it is her seventh World Championship medal and her first since 2019, solidifying her reputation as a stalwart in the freestyle skiing community. Xu's determination and perseverance over the years have earned her a consistent presence on the podium, showcasing her enduring talent and dedication to the sport. The event saw a fierce competition among the finalists, with Xu and her Chinese teammates advancing to the second round.
Chen, at just 16 years old, made a notable debut, finishing fourth, while Shao improved upon her previous best World Championship performance, coming in sixth. The gold medal was secured by Kayla Koon of the United States, with Danielle Scott of Australia claiming the bronze. On the men's side, the Swiss team dominated the podium, with Noe Roth taking the gold with 143.31 points, followed by American Quinn Dehlinger with the silver, and his teammate Pirmin Werner securing the bronze.
Xu Mengtao's silver medal win has significant implications for both her personal career and the broader landscape of Chinese freestyle skiing. The achievement is a testament to her perseverance and serves as a catalyst for the growth of winter sports in China, inspiring future generations of athletes and potentially leading to increased international recognition and competitiveness. As Xu Mengtao and her team prepare for future events, they will be watched with greater interest, and their performances could have a lasting impact on the sport's popularity in China.
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