Nathan Chen Achieves a Huge Honor Rarely Given to Olympians Post Golden Victory at Beijing Olympics 2022

Ever since his Olympic victory in Beijing, Nathan Chen has been honored with multiple awards and accolades. His gold in the men’s event was the first ever since Evan Lysacek won the title in Vancouver in 2010.

Hailing from Salt Lake City, Chen especially brought about some hometown glory for Utah. And to honor his representation of his home state, the state of Utah declared May 18 as ‘Nathan Chen Day’.

Governor of Utah proclaims May 18 as Nathan Chen Day

Chen is currently touring with the rest of the US Olympic Team in the “Stars On Ice” shows. The tour stopped by Chen’s hometown in Salt Lake City, Utah, on May 18, and the state legislators took the opportunity to honor his Olympic victory and his incredible career. The three-time World Champion was invited to the floor in the Senate Chambers at the Utah Capitol Building, and Governor Spencer Cox declared May 18 ‘Nathan Chen Day’.

In his speech, Chen said, “This is where I started; this is where the whole journey began.” Afterward, Chen spoke with the media on the steps of the Capitol Building, where he spoke about his motivations.

“I mean truthfully, I didn’t really think I was going to be able to make it to where I made it,” said Chen. “It’s not always an upwards journey, there’s always ups and downs, but in order to maintain that passion, you have to have that dream and that drive. And the Olympics for me was that dream and drive.”

READ MORE: US Figure Skating Stars Nathan Chen and Mariah Bell Receive Prestigious Honor for the Second Consecutive Time

Chen talks 2030 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City

The Olympics are the largest sporting event that happens once every four years. They bring a tremendous economic boon to host cities and inspire many to chase after their dreams. And Salt Lake City has thrown in its hat for the 2030 Winter Olympics.

During the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, Chen was only three. Now, he’s advocating bringing the Olympics back to his hometown. “I mean, I know firsthand how inspiring the Olympics can be. Salt Lake City is incredibly equipped to have one since they’ve had one already,” he claimed. He believes that the opportunity would inspire the youth of Utah and perhaps many would pick up a sport.

Chen will return to his studies at Yale, and take a break from skating once the tour wraps up. While he has given no concrete answer to when or whether he’ll return, he will decide after his graduation in two years.

DIVE DEEPER: US Olympic Gold Medalist Nathan Chen Makes a Dicey Statement on His Figure Skating Future