AI Powers Breakthrough in Olympic Snowboarding: How DeepMind’s Model Helped Athlete Perfect Her Signature Trick
An AI model created by Google DeepMind is transforming how elite athletes analyze and refine their performances, and Olympic snowboarder Maddie Mastro is one of the first to put it to the test. The AI system uses advanced computer vision and motion analysis to break down complex movements with unprecedented precision, offering Mastro real-time feedback on her signature trick—the double cork 1260. By processing high-speed video footage from multiple angles, the AI model reconstructs her body’s motion in 3D, identifying subtle shifts in timing, rotation, and body positioning that are nearly impossible to detect with the naked eye. This level of detail allows Mastro to fine-tune her technique with a scientific approach, reducing the trial-and-error phase that traditionally comes with mastering high-difficulty maneuvers. The technology doesn’t just analyze past performances—it can simulate variations of her trick, predicting outcomes based on slight adjustments. This enables Mastro and her coaching team to explore optimal movement patterns before attempting them on snow, significantly improving training efficiency and safety. For Mastro, who competes in the women’s snowboard halfpipe, this AI-powered insight has already led to more consistent landings and greater confidence in executing complex tricks. It’s a glimpse into the future of sports training, where artificial intelligence becomes a co-pilot in the pursuit of athletic excellence. As AI continues to evolve, its role in elite sports is expected to grow, helping athletes push the boundaries of what’s possible.
