Chloe Kim Credits Myles Garrett’s Anime Shirt for Olympic Inspiration
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim recently shared an unexpected source of motivation. The acclaimed snowboarder revealed how NFL star Myles Garrett’s choice of attire helped her. She found inspiration during the high-pressure 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.
Kim, known for her dominance in the halfpipe, faced immense pressure. The global competition demanded peak mental and physical fortitude. She openly discussed feeling “super stressed” during the event. However, a specific moment involving Garrett, a defensive end for the Cleveland Browns, became a significant turning point.
An Unexpected Boost from a Fellow Athlete
Kim, a passionate fan of the Japanese anime series Naruto, was watching television. She saw Garrett wearing a shirt featuring Rock Lee. This is a beloved character from the popular show. The sight resonated deeply with her. She shared her feelings on the Mind What Matters podcast.
“I was super stressed at the Olympics,” Kim explained. She even considered going home. Nevertheless, seeing Garrett’s familiar shirt provided an immediate shift in her mindset. It gave her a crucial boost of confidence. She thought, “If Myles Garrett likes Naruto, then I can definitely win a gold medal.”
Connecting Through Shared Interests
The unique connection did not end there. Following her Olympic success, Kim reached out to Garrett via social media. She expressed her appreciation for his unintended support. Garrett, known for his own deep love of anime, was delighted to hear from her. He promptly sent Kim a signed version of the very same Rock Lee shirt.
Kim proudly wore the shirt to a recent event. She described the moment as “super surreal” and “full circle.” This interaction highlighted a surprising bond between two top athletes. They came from different sports, yet shared a common passion. This underscored the power of unexpected connections.
Beyond the Competition: Mental Well-being Advocacy
Kim often speaks about the importance of mental health in sports. She advocates strongly for athletes taking necessary breaks. She has previously stepped away from snowboarding to prioritize her well-being. This candid revelation further emphasizes her commitment to mental wellness. Additionally, anime, she noted, serves as a “comfort show” for her. It provides a valuable escape from professional pressures.
Garrett also shares this appreciation for anime culture. He has frequently incorporated Naruto poses into his on-field celebrations. The specific shirt Kim saw was part of “The Naruto x Myles Garrett collection” by Hypland. This collaboration highlights anime’s growing influence across mainstream sports and broader pop culture.
Ultimately, Chloe Kim’s story is a powerful reminder of inspiration’s diverse forms. A simple shared interest helped her overcome immense Olympic pressure. She went on to secure two impressive gold medals in Beijing. Her remarkable journey continues to inspire aspiring athletes and fans across the globe.
