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Despite an extremely challenging year in the event industry, the X Games is soldiering on and scheduled to go off this weekend. But like any sport in this new, modern era, health protocols must be met before athletes are allowed to participate. Unfortunately, Mark McMorris did not meet those protocols this week, announcing today via his Instagram page that he’d tested positive for COVID-19.
“Sadly I’ve tested positive for COVID-19 and will have to miss this years @xgames,” he wrote. “Heartbroken but feeling healthy. Sending good vibes to all the riders and staff in Aspen. Stay safe.”
McMorris hasn’t missed an X Games since his debut in 2011 and is the most decorated athlete in the event’s history. Between slopestyle and big air, McMorris has amassed 20 medals during all X Games events he’s been a part of (U.S. and Europe).
McMorris apparently wasn’t feeling overly symptomatic but this comes after two Canadian teammates tested positive in Europe during the World Cup event in LAAX and he tested positive upon his return home to California.
The X Games opens Friday in Aspen.
