Atkin wins halfpipe bronze for Team GB's fifth medal
BBC World
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Zoe Atkin secured Great Britain’s fifth medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics by winning bronze in the women’s halfpipe freestyle skiing competition. This achievement not only showcased Atkin’s skill and determination but also marked a significant milestone for Team GB, matching their record-best haul from previous Games. The victory underscored the growing strength of British athletes on the global stage, particularly in less traditional sports like freestyle skiing.
The event, held in Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, saw Atkin deliver a flawless performance that earned her a well-deserved bronze medal. Her success followed a series of impressive displays by her teammates, including previous medals in other disciplines such as snowboarding and Alpine skiing. The halfpipe final was fiercely competitive, with athletes from around the world pushing their limits to achieve higher scores.
This milestone for Team GB highlights the nation’s rising influence in winter sports. Freestyle skiing, once seen as a niche discipline, has gained traction in recent years, thanks in part to the dedication of athletes like Atkin. Her bronze medal not only boosts Great Britain’s medals tally but also serves as an inspiration to future generations of skiers and sports enthusiasts alike.
The success of Team GB at these Olympics is a testament to their hard work, training, and strategic planning. As the Games progress, expectations for further achievements remain high. Atkin’s victory in the women’s halfpipe sets the tone for what could be a memorable and historic performance by British athletes on the global stage.
In a broader context, this achievement reflects the increasing diversity of winter sports participation worldwide. The 2026 Winter Olympics have been a platform for emerging talents to shine, demonstrating how global collaboration and investment in sports development can yield extraordinary results. Atkin’s bronze medal is not just a personal triumph but also a collective success story for Great Britain and its athletes.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/22/2026