Zoi Sadowski-Synnott is one of the most accomplished winter athletes to come out of New Zealand in recent years. Born on March 6, 2001, she built her reputation in competitive snowboarding through skill, consistency, and fearless performances in slopestyle and big air events. Watching her compete, it’s clear she combines technical precision with creativity, which is exactly what modern snowboarding demands.
Her breakthrough on the Olympic stage transformed her into a national icon. At the 2018 Winter Olympics, she captured a bronze medal in big air, marking the beginning of her rise in international competition. Four years later, she delivered a historic performance at the 2022 Winter Olympics by winning gold in slopestyle and silver in big air. That achievement made her New Zealand’s first Winter Olympic gold medalist and the first athlete from her country to earn multiple medals at a single Winter Games.
She continued to strengthen her legacy at the 2026 Winter Olympics, earning another silver medal in big air. Beyond the Olympic spotlight, she also secured the women’s slopestyle world title at the 2019 World Championships, proving that her success is built on long-term consistency rather than one standout moment.
Zoi’s journey reflects dedication, resilience, and a deep passion for her sport. In this article, we’ll explore her early life, athletic development, major achievements, and the mindset that has helped her stand out in global snowboarding.
Zoi Sadowski-Synnott Makes History with Fifth Olympic Medal at 2026 Games
New Zealand snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott continued her remarkable Winter Olympics run by winning a silver medal in the women’s snowboard slopestyle event at the 2026 Milano Cortina Games, securing her fifth Olympic medal and cementing her place as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Competing with fierce determination on the Livigno snowpark course, she finished just behind Japan’s Mari Fukada to claim the silver.
The milestone makes her the most decorated Olympic snowboarder in the world and New Zealand’s most successful Winter Olympian, highlighted by her previous medals — including bronze in big air (2018), gold and silver in slopestyle and big air (2022), and another silver in big air earlier in 2026.
Representing a nation not traditionally dominant in winter sports, Sadowski-Synnott’s consistent excellence at the highest level has inspired fans at home and abroad. After her final run, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete on the global stage and acknowledged the support of her long-time training team and family, describing the moment as both humbling and exhilarating.
Early Life & Education, Parents
Zoi Katherine Sadowski-Synnott was born in Sydney, Australia, but she was raised in Wanaka, New Zealand. Growing up near the mountains played a major role in shaping her athletic future. Wanaka is known for its access to snowfields and outdoor adventure culture, making it an ideal environment for a future snowboarder.
Her father, Sean Synnott, is from New Zealand, and her mother, Robin Sadowski, is American. Her mixed background gave her both Kiwi and American influences while she developed her identity as an athlete. Although she was born in Australia, she proudly represents New Zealand in international competition.
She attended Te Kura O Tititea Mount Aspiring College from 2012 to 2018. Balancing school and competitive training required discipline from an early age. Coaches and teachers have noted her focus and maturity during her teenage years, especially as she began competing internationally.
Her family has consistently supported her athletic ambitions, often traveling with her during early competitions. This strong foundation helped her remain grounded even as global attention grew.
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Junior Career & Early Competitions
Zoi’s snowboarding journey began at a young age. Like many elite snowboarders, she started riding as a child and quickly showed natural ability. Her early focus was on freestyle disciplines, particularly slopestyle and big air.
By her teenage years, she was already competing in international junior events. Her style stood out because of its fluid transitions and technical tricks. She demonstrated strong spatial awareness and a willingness to attempt complex maneuvers that many riders her age avoided.
Her junior competitions helped her gain experience on global stages and prepared her for Olympic-level pressure. Coaches frequently described her as focused, creative, and highly adaptable — three qualities essential in freestyle snowboarding.
Breakthrough on the International Stage
Zoi’s breakthrough moment came when she began competing in FIS Snowboard World Cup events and X Games competitions. Her consistent podium finishes signaled that she was not just a promising athlete — she was becoming a serious contender.
Her 2019 World Championship performance in slopestyle marked a turning point. Winning the world title confirmed that she could compete against the best riders in the world. That victory elevated her status and brought more sponsorship attention.
From that point forward, she was no longer considered an underdog but a legitimate title favorite.
Olympic Journey & Historic Achievements
Zoi first made Olympic headlines at the 2018 Winter Olympics, where she won a bronze medal in women’s big air. At just 16 years old, she became one of the youngest Olympic medalists in her sport.
However, it was the 2022 Winter Olympics that solidified her legacy. She won gold in women’s slopestyle and silver in big air. This achievement made her:
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New Zealand’s first Winter Olympic gold medalist
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The first New Zealander to win multiple medals at a single Winter Games
These accomplishments were historic not only for her career but for her country’s winter sports history.
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, she continued her strong Olympic presence by earning another silver medal in big air. Her ability to consistently perform under pressure across multiple Olympic cycles demonstrates long-term excellence.
World Championship Success
In addition to Olympic medals, Zoi claimed the women’s slopestyle title at the 2019 World Championships. That victory confirmed her position among the sport’s elite.
World Championships differ from the Olympics in that they require sustained consistency over qualification rounds and finals. Her ability to maintain performance levels across multiple runs shows technical mastery and mental strength.
She has also earned multiple podium finishes in FIS World Cup events and X Games competitions, further strengthening her competitive resume.
Personal Life & Relationships
Zoi tends to keep her personal life private. While she occasionally shares moments from training camps and travel experiences on social media, she does not publicly discuss romantic relationships in detail.
Her focus appears to remain primarily on training, recovery, and competition goals. Athletes in high-performance winter sports often follow demanding schedules, which leaves limited room for public exposure beyond professional life.
Her calm and composed public image reflects her grounded upbringing and strong family support system.
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Net Worth & Awards & National Honors
As of 2026, Zoi Sadowski-Synnott’s estimated net worth is approximately $1 million to $2 million, based on public reporting, competition earnings, and endorsement deals.
Her income sources include:
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Olympic prize incentives
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World Cup and competition winnings
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Sponsorship agreements
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Brand endorsements
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National sports funding support
Major sponsors typically include snowboarding equipment brands, winter apparel companies, and energy drink partnerships. Olympic gold medalists often see increased sponsorship value after historic performances.
In terms of honors, she has received national recognition in New Zealand, including membership in the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to snowboarding.
These honors reflect not only athletic performance but her contribution to inspiring young athletes in her country.
Height & Weight
Zoi stands approximately 1.65 meters (5 feet 5 inches) tall and weighs around 57 kilograms (126 pounds).
Snowboarding does not favor size or bulk. Instead, agility, coordination, flexibility, and technical control are key advantages. Her athletic build allows her to execute complex rotations and maintain stability during high-impact landings.
Physical Profile and Ethnicity
Zoi’s physical profile reflects the demands of freestyle snowboarding. Her balance, flexibility, and core strength allow her to perform advanced tricks while maintaining control.
Her background reflects mixed European heritage through both parents. Her father is from New Zealand, and her mother is American. Beyond that, she has not publicly detailed specific cultural or ancestral discussions in interviews.
Regarding religion, she has not publicly spoken about personal spiritual beliefs. That aspect of her life remains private.
Quick Bio Table
| Full Name | Zoi Katherine Sadowski-Synnott |
|---|---|
| Born | March 6, 2001 |
| Age | 24 (2026) |
| Birthplace | Sydney, Australia |
| Nationality | New Zealand |
| Parents | Robin Sadowski, Sean Synnott |
| Height | 1.65 m |
| Weight | 57 kg |
| Education | Mount Aspiring College |
| Sport | Snowboarding |
| Events | Slopestyle, Big Air |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1–2 million |
| Social Media | Instagram – YouTube |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Zoi Sadowski-Synnott an Olympic gold medalist?
Yes, she won gold in women’s slopestyle at the 2022 Winter Olympics.
Q: How tall is Zoi Sadowski-Synnott?
She is 1.65 meters (5 feet 5 inches).
Q: What events does she compete in?
She competes in slopestyle and big air snowboarding events.
Q: What is her estimated net worth?
Her estimated net worth ranges between $1 million and $2 million.
Q: Where did she grow up?
She was raised in Wanaka, New Zealand.
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