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Ayumu Hirano Targets Halfpipe Title Defense at Milan Cortina After January Crash

Official training starts Sunday, leaving a narrow window as he gauges readiness following trainer-reported fractures.

Overview

  • Hirano signaled he will try to compete next week, saying he must trust his preparation, in a statement released by the Ski Association of Japan.
  • His trainer previously said on social media that the 27-year-old broke his nose and pelvis in a fall at a Swiss contest last month.
  • Hirano declined to detail his condition this week, offering only brief comments about his mindset and approach.
  • Halfpipe training is set for Sunday in Italy, with men's qualifying scheduled for Wednesday under the Milan Cortina program.
  • According to Olympics.com, Hirano could become the first Japanese Winter Olympian to win medals at four consecutive Games, having won gold in 2022 after two prior silvers.