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Myles Garrett and Chloe Kim Forge Unexpected Friendship

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 0:00 GMT by People
      Locales: UNITED STATES, ITALY, KOREA REPUBLIC OF

Milan, Italy - February 8th, 2026 - As the world prepares for the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and the surrounding Italian alps, a surprising and supportive friendship is gaining attention: the connection between NFL superstar Myles Garrett and Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim. Garrett, the dominant defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, has publicly expressed his desire to be a source of strength and encouragement for Kim as she returns to competitive snowboarding after a period of respite.

Garrett, 27, revealed in a recent interview with People magazine that he's been in regular communication with the 23-year-old Kim, acknowledging the immense pressure that comes with being an elite athlete and offering unwavering support. His stated intention - to be Kim's "rock" - speaks to a growing trend of cross-sport athlete solidarity and mental wellness advocacy.

Kim, renowned for her breathtaking performances in the halfpipe, captivated the world at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, securing a gold medal at just 17 years old. However, following her Olympic triumph, Kim stepped away from the competitive spotlight, openly discussing the mental and physical toll of maintaining peak performance. The decision garnered widespread respect, shining a light on the often-hidden struggles of professional athletes. She's been taking time to recharge, explore other interests, and most importantly, rediscover her passion for snowboarding on her own terms.

Now, with the 2026 Milan Games on the horizon, Kim has signaled her intent to return to competition, as confirmed in a July interview with On Her Turf. This comeback is not merely about chasing another medal; it's about reclaiming her love for the sport and competing with a renewed sense of purpose. And it's during this critical phase of preparation that Garrett's support has become particularly valuable.

"Sometimes all people need is someone to be there for them and to believe in them," Garrett explained, echoing a sentiment increasingly prevalent in discussions surrounding athlete wellbeing. This simple act of offering unconditional support, free from the pressures of competition, can be profoundly impactful for an athlete navigating a return to the highest level of their sport.

While seemingly disparate, the worlds of American football and snowboarding share a common thread: the relentless pursuit of excellence and the immense pressure to perform. Both Garrett and Kim have experienced the highs of achieving their dreams and the lows of facing intense scrutiny. This shared understanding has fostered a genuine connection between the two athletes, extending beyond casual acquaintance.

"It's nice to connect with someone who's working as hard as I am," Garrett said, emphasizing the mutual respect and admiration he holds for Kim. "She is, genuinely, an inspiration." He further elaborated, stating, "I like to connect with people who are working hard, who are on their journey, and she's on a different level."

Experts in sports psychology highlight the importance of strong support systems for athletes, particularly during periods of transition or comeback. Having a friend and confidant who understands the unique challenges of elite competition can provide a crucial emotional anchor. Garrett's role, as Kim prepares for Milan, seems to fit this mold perfectly - a grounding force offering encouragement and a reminder of the joy in the sport itself.

As the Milan Winter Olympics draw closer, all eyes will be on Chloe Kim's return to the halfpipe. While her athletic prowess is undeniable, the support system she's cultivated, including the friendship of Myles Garrett, could prove to be just as crucial to her success. Beyond the medals and accolades, this connection underscores the power of camaraderie and mutual respect among athletes, fostering a more supportive and understanding environment within the world of professional sports.