A Glimpse into the Mindset of a Skateboarding Icon
Credit : Jason Halayko / Red Bull Content Pool
Yuto Horigome, the 26-year-old Tokyo-born skateboarder, continues to solidify his position as a dominant force in professional skateboarding. His recent second-place finish at the 2025 Tampa Pro, narrowly missing a historic third consecutive title, underscores his sustained excellence in one of street skateboarding's most prestigious events. This latest achievement adds to a career already brimming with accolades, marking him as a pivotal figure in both competitive skateboarding and its broader cultural landscape.
Horigome's journey from Tokyo's often-restrictive skateboarding environment to global recognition, culminating in his status as the first-ever Olympic skateboarding champion, exemplifies the sport's worldwide expansion. His resume boasts multiple victories across major platforms, including Street League Skateboarding (SLS), the X Games, and a near three-peat at Tampa Pro, establishing him as a unique and influential presence in skateboarding history.
While Olympic gold and major contest wins highlight his competitive prowess, Horigome's ambitions extend beyond simply accumulating titles. He has openly expressed a keen interest in conquering the Street League Super Crown, a contest he has long admired. This ambition reflects a broader drive to continually push his own boundaries and evolve alongside the sport's top talent.
The Tampa Pro holds a distinct significance for Horigome, recognized as an event that draws together a diverse field of professional skaters, including those who may not regularly compete in the SLS or X Games circuits. He values the unique atmosphere and the emphasis on flow and speed, which allows him to showcase different aspects of his skateboarding. The increasing level of competition at Tampa Pro, fueled by emerging new talent, further motivates him.
Looking towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Horigome acknowledges the ongoing need for personal and technical evolution. His focus isn't solely on mastering increasingly difficult tricks but also on developing a personal style that is both innovative and authentic. This commitment to organic progression underscores his understanding of skateboarding as both a sport and a form of creative expression.
Horigome holds a nuanced view of the relationship between contest skateboarding and street riding, seeing the former as a natural progression from his early experiences in smaller skateparks. He appreciates the distinct cultures within each discipline and recognizes the expanding opportunities presented by the growing prominence of competitions, including the Olympics.
The Skater of the Year (SOTY) award, bestowed for contributions to street culture and pushing skateboarding's boundaries, holds a particular significance for Horigome. As no Asian skater has yet received this honor, it represents a unique form of recognition beyond competitive results. While he would value the award, his primary focus remains on creating impactful video parts that genuinely reflect his vision for skateboarding.
Recognizing the continuous growth of the skateboarding scene alongside emerging young talent, Horigome actively engages with and supports promising young skaters. Through observing videos and social media, and with the help of his network, he identifies individuals he believes in. Drawing on his own journey, marked by both successes and challenges, he aims to guide the next generation, fostering an environment conducive to their development.
As Yuto Horigome continues to leave his mark on professional skateboarding, his narrative transcends the accumulation of victories. His dedication to progression, creative expression, and the mentorship of future generations underscores a commitment to the enduring vitality of skateboarding, both within the structured world of competition and the foundational realm of the streets where it first took root. His ongoing pursuit of excellence suggests that his reign as a pivotal figure in skateboarding is far from over.
