X Games and Google Team Up to Revolutionize Judging with AI

Ever thought about computers judging sports? Well, that's exactly what's happening at the X Games! After teaming up with Google, they're rolling out a new AI judging system for ski and snowboard events at the superpipe. This 20-foot-tall freestyle course is usually judged by humans on things like combinations, flow, and difficulty. But now, AI will take the reins, analyzing video footage for metrics like airtime and trick difficulty.

This system, developed with Google Cloud’s tools, aims to make judging more objective and give athletes more insights into their performances. It’s like having an extra set of eyes that never gets tired or biased. The X Games, which was founded by ESPN to showcase sports like snowboarding and skateboarding, is always looking for new ways to engage fans. “We want to make the fan experience unique and exciting, ” said Jeff Moorad, CEO of MSP Sports Capital, which now owns the X Games. Jeremy Bloom, the X Games CEO, agrees: “AI is just starting in action sports, but it’s already amazing. Aspen will be our test run. ” Sports like figure skating and diving could be next in line for AI judging. It’s a whole new world out there, and the X Games is leading the charge!

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