Japanese world champion Yuto Horigome held his nerve to be crowned skateboarding’s first Olympic gold medallist after winning a tense street competition in Tokyo on Sunday.
The 22-year-old, who grew up just a stone’s throw from the Olympic venue, landed three huge tricks in a row to eclipse American favourite Nyjah Huston, who imploded to finish seventh.
In searing heat at Ariake Urban Sports Centre, Horigome finished with scores of 9.35, 9.50 and 9.30 for a total of 37.18, with Brazil’s Kelvin Hoefler second and US skater Jagger Eaton third.
“This is special because it was held in Koto City, where I was born,” said Horigome. “For me it’s very meaningful, very inspiring.”
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