Olympic skateboarding star Nyjah Huston recently turned heads by casually riding his skateboard through the bustling terminals of the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This act perfectly illustrated his never-ending passion for street skating, proving that for him, the world is one big skatepark.
Airport Terminals as a Personal Skatepark
The sight of an Olympic medalist smoothly navigating the airport on four wheels might surprise many, but for Huston, it's a practical and fun way to travel. Surprisingly, airport staff often don't mind him rolling through, making his journeys quicker and more enjoyable. Huston himself remarked that the airport would be an incredible place to skate, praising the generally relaxed attitude.
He did admit that reactions can vary depending on the location. "Some people get pissed, I'm not gonna lie, but hey, it saves a lot of time," Huston said. Over his legendary career, he has skated in numerous unconventional spots, from casinos to nightclubs. Yet, for this California native, nothing compares to the raw appeal of street skating, especially in Los Angeles. "It's just so classic," he added.
From Child Prodigy to Olympic Podium
Nyjah Huston's journey on a skateboard began when he was just three years old in Northern California. His prodigious talent was evident early on, as he won his first competition by the age of 10. Drawn by the iconic skate culture of Southern California, he moved to the region at 15. Now residing in Laguna Beach, his connection to the area's skateboarding roots remains deep.
Huston has competed on the sport's biggest new stage: the Olympics. At the Tokyo 2020 Games, the experience was overwhelming, as skaters represented their countries for the first time. By the time Paris 2024 arrived, he adjusted his mindset, approaching the competition with a more open perspective, which helped him secure a bronze medal.
Looking Ahead: The LA 2028 Dream
Despite his Olympic success, Huston views skateboarding as much more than a medal chase. "In my eyes, skateboarding is more of a lifestyle than it is a sport, more of a way of life," he stated. His long-term goal is simple yet profound: to still be grinding rails when he's in his 60s or 70s.
However, a clear short-term target is now on the horizon. The announcement that the 2028 Summer Olympics will be held in Los Angeles has given Huston a significant boost. The 30-year-old legend confirmed that the Games returning to Southern California provides him with extra motivation to continue competing at the highest level. For a skater who embodies the LA street scene, the chance to go for gold in his own backyard is a powerful driving force as he keeps his Olympic dreams alive for LA28.
