At just 16 years old, Brazilian skateboarding prodigy Rayssa Leal made history this week by winning her third X Games gold medal in Women’s Street Skateboarding, becoming the youngest athlete ever to do so. The win, achieved in Chiba, Japan, cements her position as one of the most dominant figures in international skateboarding and a frontrunner for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Leal’s latest performance was a near-flawless display of technical mastery, creativity, and competitive composure — all trademarks of her now globally recognized style.
A Golden Run in Chiba
Rayssa outscored Japanese favorites Momiji Nishiya and Funa Nakayama, landing a perfect line that included a kickflip frontside boardslide, heelflip crooked grind, and a 360 flip down a six-stair rail — all executed with smooth style and precision.
Her final score of 91.3 was the highest of the competition, and her third run was immediately hailed as one of the cleanest in X Games Women’s Street history.
After her win, Rayssa said:
“Every time I skate, I try to be better than yesterday. It’s not about being perfect — it’s about having fun and pushing myself.”
A Star on and Off the Board
Since her silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (at just 13), Rayssa has become a global symbol of the new generation in action sports. Her blend of youthful charisma, fearless skating, and humility has won fans across the world.
She currently holds:
- 3 X Games gold medals
- 1 Olympic silver medal
- Multiple podium finishes in Street League Skateboarding (SLS)
- Endorsements with Nike SB, Red Bull, and Brazilian cosmetics brand O Boticário
Beyond competition, she’s known for her positive presence on social media, often posting videos of her practice sessions, dance routines, and support for other skaters — including younger Brazilian talents she mentors through community programs.
Leading Brazil’s Olympic Skateboarding Hopes
With Paris 2024 approaching, Rayssa is leading Brazil’s Olympic qualification standings and is widely considered a top contender for gold.
The Olympic street skateboarding event will take place at the Place de la Concorde, one of Paris’ most iconic public spaces, which is being transformed into an urban sports park.
Rayssa’s coach, Rogério Mancha, said:
“She’s skating with more maturity now, more control — but still with the joy that defines her. That’s her edge.”
Skateboarding’s Cultural Impact in Brazil
Rayssa’s rise has sparked a nationwide movement in Brazil:
- Over 150 new skateparks have been built or renovated since 2021.
- Women’s skateboarding participation has tripled, according to the Brazilian Skate Confederation.
- Brands and city governments are sponsoring grassroots events to find and fund local talent.
Her nickname, “Fadinha” (Little Fairy) — earned from a viral video of her skating in a fairy costume at age 7 — has become a symbol of how dreams, when nurtured, can lead to global greatness.
Conclusion: Still Just Getting Started
With another X Games title under her belt and Paris 2024 on the horizon, Rayssa Leal continues to skate not just for medals — but for joy, equality, and inspiration.
At 16, she’s already made history — but for Brazil and the world of skateboarding, her greatest tricks may still be ahead.