Shaun White spoke with News Of Los Angeles at Macy’s Herald Square on January 24, 2026 about his future in snowboarding and his role as an NBC commentator for the 2026 Winter Games.
At a Glance
- White, 39, retired after the 2022 Beijing Olympics but may return.
- He will attend the 2026 Games in Livigno as a commentator.
- White praised Ralph Lauren’s new Team USA collection unveiled on December 4.
- He said a comeback would require a special spark.
Introduction
Shaun White, the legendary snowboarder, took a moment to relax at Macy’s Herald Square, celebrating Ralph Lauren’s Team USA collection for the 2026 Winter Olympics. While joking about a joint crack, he discussed his retirement, his partnership with Ralph Lauren, and the possibility of a comeback. White also confirmed his role as an NBC commentator for the upcoming Games.
White’s Return to the Spotlight
During the interview, White laughed, “Oh, my goodness. Did you see me do this? That was just my back.” He explained that getting back into competitive shape would require extensive stretching and “a lot of red light therapy.” The snowboard legend, known for his iconic halfpipe gold medals, said that while he has nothing left to prove, the idea of a comeback still intrigues him.
White’s feelings about retirement are mixed. He said, “I’m just so thrilled to focus on other things than what I’ve focused on since I was like, 7, to I guess pro at 13.” He added that a return would need a “weird breakthrough” and a new source of inspiration.
Key Points
- White retired four years ago after the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
- He is 39 and has pursued a new career path on and off the snow.
- A comeback would require a significant personal motivation.
Ralph Lauren’s Team USA Collection
The collection debuted on December 4 and features uniforms for the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as a full range of apparel for men, women, and children. White praised the brand’s “vintage classic, but new modern update of old ski chalet vibe.” He highlighted the red, white, and blue fleece from the collection, saying, “Everybody on the team loves the gear!”
White’s partnership with Ralph Lauren spans several years. He noted, “It’s their tenth consecutive Olympics outfitting Team USA, so Ralph’s doing it big.” He compared the brand’s recent work to past sponsors, stating, “By far, Ralph just crushed it when they came in.”
Collection Highlights
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Ceremonial Uniforms | Designed for opening and closing ceremonies |
| Team USA Apparel | Red, white, and blue pieces for all ages |
| Accessories | Hats, scarves, and more, reflecting Olympic energy |
Retirement and Future Plans
White reflected on his retirement, saying, “I don’t know, it would take a lot.” He described the emotional mix of pressure and excitement he feels on competition days, noting that “there’s not much in my life currently that would make me feel that way.” He added that he is enjoying retirement “taking it day by day, especially leading up to the Olympics.”
While White will not compete in 2026, he is excited to attend the Games in Livigno, the location for all snowboarding events. He emphasized the emotional connection he has with the sport, saying, “I was really alive in those moments.”
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 24, 2026 | Interview at Macy’s Herald Square |
| December 4 | Ralph Lauren unveils Team USA collection |
| February 6 | Milan Cortina Olympics and Paralympics begin |
2026 Winter Olympics Role
White’s role as an NBC commentator will keep him involved in the sport he loves. He described the experience as “surprising” and “exciting,” noting that the commentary position allows him to stay connected to the Games without competing.
He added, “I’m enjoying retirement. I’m taking it day by day, especially leading up to the Olympics. There’s a lot of feelings.” This sentiment reflects his balanced view of life after competition.
Takeaways
- White remains open to a comeback but emphasizes the need for a special motivation.
- His partnership with Ralph Lauren highlights a new era of Olympic branding.
- As an NBC commentator, he will bring his expertise to the 2026 Winter Games.
The 2026 Winter Olympics will be the first Games White attends as a spectator, but his presence will be felt through his commentary and his continued support of Team USA.
Key Takeaways
- Shaun White is retired but considers a comeback if inspired.
- He celebrated Ralph Lauren’s new Team USA collection at Macy’s.
- White will commentate for NBC at the 2026 Games in Livigno.
- A return would require a significant personal spark.
Final Thoughts
White’s journey from Olympic champion to commentator illustrates how athletes can evolve while staying connected to their sport. His partnership with Ralph Lauren and his upcoming commentary role underscore his enduring influence on the world of snowboarding.
