The X Games will be testing a new approach to judging halfpipe runs in Aspen this week by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This innovative initiative, spearheaded by the X Games and its CEO Jeremy Bloom in collaboration with Google founder Sergey Brin, aims to explore the potential of using AI in scoring subjectively judged sports.
Utilizing Google Cloud tools, including Vertex AI, the experiment seeks to revolutionize the judging process not only in halfpipe competitions but potentially in other sports like slopestyle, skateboarding, and more where subjective scoring is prevalent. Bloom emphasized the need for accuracy in judging, highlighting how human errors can have significant consequences in competitive sports.
The Winter Olympics in Beijing recently faced a judging controversy in the men's halfpipe final, underscoring the importance of precise scoring. The introduction of AI technology could help mitigate such issues by providing judges with enhanced insights that may not be visible to the naked eye.
While the AI system at the X Games will not impact official scoring, it will serve as a demonstration of its capabilities for future applications. By analyzing extensive footage and judging criteria, the AI will predict top finishers and offer commentary on riders' performances during the event.
Bloom emphasized that the AI technology complements human judges rather than replacing them entirely. By providing judges with additional tools for objectivity, the aim is to enhance the overall fairness and accuracy of scoring in subjective sports.
This experimental use of AI in snowboarding judging represents a significant step towards leveraging technology to improve the integrity of competitive sports. As the technology continues to evolve, it holds the potential to transform how subjective sports are scored, ensuring a more transparent and reliable judging process.
While the future implications of AI in sports judging remain to be fully realized, the X Games' initiative marks a pivotal moment in exploring the intersection of technology and athletics, paving the way for potential advancements in scoring methodologies across various disciplines.
