Nyjah Huston has once again proven why he is one of the most celebrated figures in the world of skateboarding. At the SLS Super Crown 2024, held at the iconic Ginásio do Ibirapuera in São Paulo, the 30-year-old American skater clinched his record-breaking seventh title, solidifying his status as the greatest competitor in the Street League Skateboarding (SLS) history.
The excitement was palpable as the competition unfolded, with Huston executing remarkable tricks to achieve a total score of 36.8. He bested Brazilian skater Giovanni Vianna, who finished second with 36.2, and Portuguese athlete Gustavo Ribeiro, who trailed with 35.4. Felipe Gustavo, another Brazilian representative, ended the event fifth, scoring 25.2.
While the atmosphere was charged with energy and enthusiasm, the final also took a distressing turn when Colombian skater Jhancarlos González suffered a serious injury. During the maneuver phase of the finals, González fell hard, hitting his face on the ground. Medical personnel quickly attended to him, and he was carried off on a stretcher amid concern from the crowd.
Fortunately, reports from the SLS organizers indicate multiple positive updates on González’s condition. They confirmed he remained lucid and oriented following his injury, sustaining lacerations to his mouth and eyebrow. He also underwent sutures and was being transferred to Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein for follow-up tests, including a tomography.
Despite the trying moment for González, the skateboarding community remained supportive. Giovanni Vianna, who had just finished the competition, expressed his gratitude for reaching the final and extended heartfelt wishes to his injured friend: "Estou muito feliz. Chegar à final já é um sonho, muito gratificante. ... Força, Jhanca. É um grande amigo nosso, família," he said during post-competition interviews.
The SLS Super Crown features two rounds of runs and individual tricks, allowing competitors to earn scores based on their best performances. Nyjah hustled to the top from the first round, demonstrating impressive technique with scores like 9.2 on his first run and maintaining his lead with another high score of 9.3 during the finals. Throughout the heated competition, the skaters exhibited unmatched skill, with several scoring above nine points.
Huston's previous victories include titles from 2010, 2012, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, and now 2024, making him not just the most decorated champion of this sport but also part of its legacy. His consistent performance has paved the way for younger athletes, and his cool demeanor under pressure inspires many.
Of note this year was Rayssa Leal, another spectacular talent from Brazil, who also claimed her third Super Crown title. Leal triumphed over opponents from Japan such as Coco Yshizawa and Yumeka Odea, marking her growing dominance and influence within skateboarding.
By capturing both the men’s and women’s top honors, Brazil shone brightly on this international stage, showcasing its depth of talent and the excitement surrounding the skate culture nourished within its vibrant community.
With incredible performances and stories of resilience highlighting the event, the SLS Super Crown 2024 concluded, leaving fans eager for the next chapter. While Nyjah Huston celebrated his historic seventh win, prayers and thoughts went out to Jhancarlos González, reflecting the camaraderie and spirit inherent to this incredible sport.