Kokone Kondo accuses Japanese freestyle skiing team of bullying and harassment

Kokone Kondo, a former Japanese freestyle skier and representative for the Milan Cortina Olympics, has publicly accused her team of bullying and power harassment. In a series of Instagram posts, Kondo detailed experiences of being ignored and socially excluded by multiple teammates during overseas training following the World Championships. She also alleged that she was subjected to online defamation involving her name and social media accounts.

Kondo further claimed that during the Milan Olympics, a team trainer engaged in power harassment, including making insulting remarks when she was crying due to a knee injury that prevented her from competing. She stated that after her withdrawal from events, she received no medical treatment from the team. When she attempted to report these issues to a national team coach, she was reportedly told she was being ‘too sensitive,’ suggesting an attempt to suppress the complaints.

The All Japan Ski Instructors and Snowboarders Association responded by noting they have established consultation desks for harassment and compliance violations, stating they would initiate investigations if contacted. Kondo, who retired in June 2026 following injuries, emphasized that her goal is to improve the Japanese freestyle skiing community to ensure future generations are treated fairly.