U.S. Snowboarder Chloe Kim Apologizes After Embarrassing Mistake

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Mar 3, 2026 9:25 PM ET

United States snowboarder Chloe Kim is still reeling from her historic success in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.

The 25-year-old entered this year’s Winter Games as a defending two-time champion in the halfpipe competition. Kim came just short of making it three in a row, finishing second in the final against 17-year-old South Korean sensation Choi Gaon.

Nevertheless, Kim still made history. She became the only female snowboarder to medal in three straight Olympics in the halfpipe. The Long Beach, California native returned to the United States with her head held high — this time as a three-time Olympic medalist.

Chloe Kim of the United States reacts after her run during women's snowboard halfpipe qualificationNathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Kim recently made a guest appearance on NBC’s “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” Kim, however, was interviewed by Pink, who was filling in for Clarkson for the week.

At one point in the interview, Kim made a personal admission to Pink.

“Can I make a confession?” Kim started. “Growing up, when I was like 12 [or] 13, I loved listening to your music when I would snowboard.”

Kim then sang a line from Clarkson’s 2012 hit song “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You).” While Pink appreciated the gesture, she also quickly pointed out that this is not one of her songs.

“That’s Kelly Clarkson,” Pink said, laughing. “… But that's fine because I'm Kelly Clarkson today.”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” Kim responded. “Oh my God. … Wait guys. I am so embarrassed. I am so sorry.”

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Kim did name one of Pink’s songs to prove her fandom, but the pop star took no offense. She laughed off Kim’s confusion and even hugged her as the decorated snowboarder apologized.

It turned out to be a light-hearted moment between Kim and Pink, which drew laughs and applause from the live audience. Kim’s on-air blunder also caused quite a stir among the fans on Instagram as well, but no one is taking her hilarious mistake against her.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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