Now An OLYMPIC SPORT - How Has SKATEBOARDING Changed?

Japanese Skateboarder Yuto Horigome wins Olympic Gold.

The inclusion of skateboarding at the Olympics in 2020 has had a significant impact on skateboarding culture.

On the one hand, it has helped to legitimise skateboarding as a sport and has brought increased attention and funding to the sport.

On the other hand, some skateboarders have expressed concerns that the Olympics are commercialising skateboarding and diluting its core values.

Team GB Skateboarding.

One of the most positive impacts of the Olympics on skateboarding culture is that it has helped to legitimize skateboarding as a sport.

For decades, skateboarding has been seen as a counterculture activity for rebellious teenagers.

However, the inclusion of skateboarding at the Olympics has helped to change this perception. Skateboarding is now seen as a legitimate sport that requires skill, athleticism, and dedication.

The increased attention and funding that skateboarding has received since being included in the Olympics has also had a positive impact on the sport.

This has led to the construction of new skateparks and the development of new skateboarding programs. It has also made it possible for more skateboarders to make a living from the sport.

International Skateboarding superstar Nyjah Huston.

However, some skateboarders have expressed concerns that the Olympics are commercialising skateboarding and diluting its core values.

Skateboarding has always been a DIY sport, and many skateboarders value its independence and authenticity. However, the Olympics is a commercial event, and some skateboarders fear that it will lead to skateboarding becoming more corporate and less inclusive.

Another concern is that the Olympics will focus on competition and winning at the expense of creativity and fun. Skateboarding has always been a sport that is more about self-expression and enjoyment than competition.

Some skateboarders fear that the Olympics will put too much emphasis on winning and medals, which could stifle the creativity and innovation that is at the heart of skateboarding culture.

Skateboarders perform tricks in Manila, Philippines.

Overall, the inclusion of skateboarding at the Olympics has had a mixed impact on skateboarding culture.

On the one hand, it has helped to legitimise skateboarding as a sport and has brought increased attention and funding to the sport.

On the other hand, some skateboarders have expressed concerns that the Olympics are commercialising skateboarding and diluting its core values.

It is still too early to say what the long-term impact of the Olympics will be on skateboarding culture.

However, it is clear that the Olympics have already had a significant impact on the sport. It will be interesting to see how skateboarding culture continues to evolve in the years to come.