In the women’s aerials final of Asian Winter Games, Liaoning athlete Xu Mengtao, the Olympic champion delivered a commanding performance, earning 90.94 points to claim the victory. Two days in a row, Xu soared to victory, winning both freestyle skiing women’s aerials and the mixed team aerials.

“This is my first time competing in Yabuli, and the venue is fantastic, with perfect weather to match. I was fully focused on my performance today, and I’m thrilled to win my first Asian Winter Games gold here,” she said.

At the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, Xu’s jubilant scream after claiming the gold captured the hearts of many, becoming an iconic moment of the Games. With four Olympic appearances, Xu not only fulfilled her own dream, but also secured China’s first-ever women’s gold in freestyle skiing women’s aerials.

Since then, Xu has stayed in the public spotlight, though not only through competition—she has also made appearances on variety shows. It wasn’t until a year-and-a-half later that she made her comeback to the sport.

“Every field has its unique charm. By exploring different areas and returning to my specialty, I gain more composure and confidence, allowing me to fully appreciate the sport,” Xu explained.

“I have an incredible mindset,” she explained. “When I’m on a reality show, I’m fully in that world. But as soon as I return to training or competition, I’m locked in.”

With the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics just around the corner, Xu has pledged to train harder than ever, aiming to greet her supporters from the top step of the podium in Milan.

“My passion is the main driver. I truly love aerials, and we are helping each other grow,” she said. “I believe that by pushing for the Milan Winter Olympics, I will contribute to the growth of the sport.”