Brazilian skateboarding phenom Rayssa Leal clinched victory in the women’s street skateboarding world final at the World Skate Games Italia on Saturday, September 14. The 16-year-old edged out a field dominated by Japanese skaters, including Tokyo 2020 champion Nishiya Momiji.
Leal’s Comeback and Winning Performance
Leal, who led after the initial run section, stumbled early in the trick portion of the competition. However, she rallied with a spectacular performance:
- Scored 88.14 to re-enter contention
- Landed a perfect kickflip backside Smith grind, scoring 93.99
- Overtook Nishiya by over a point to secure the win
When asked about her performance, Leal said, “Maybe, yeah. I did my best run here but I don’t have the words for this contest. I’m happy. My team is the best ever. They motivate it. The fans carry me. Thank you to everyone in Brazil for supporting me.”
Japanese Dominance and Notable Performances
Despite Leal’s victory, Japanese skaters showcased their strength:
- Seven out of eight finalists were from Japan
- Nishiya Momiji, unable to defend her Olympic title in Paris 2024, scored 94.88 with a crooked grind into nollie heel flip
- Ito Miyu secured bronze with a hardflip scoring 90.15 in the trick section
Injury and Setbacks
The competition was not without incident:
- Reigning world champion Oda Yumeka fell heavily and was unable to continue
- Uemura Aoi failed to register a score after two falls in the run section
For skateboarders looking to avoid injuries and improve their skills, it’s crucial to understand proper skate park etiquette and unwritten rules. This knowledge can help prevent accidents and promote a safer skating environment for all.
Significance of the Victory
This win marks Leal’s return to the top of the podium, reclaiming the title she won in Sharjah in February 2023. Her performance demonstrates the continued evolution of women’s street skateboarding and sets the stage for future competitions.
As the skateboarding world looks ahead to the Paris 2024 Olympics, Leal’s victory cements her status as a top contender and highlights the intense competition in the sport.
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