Overview
Youri Zoon is a professional kiteboarder from the southwestern Netherlands. A true legend of the sport, he crowned himself freestyle World Champion back-to-back in 2011 and 2012. With a background in multiple extreme sports such as BMX and windsurfing, he fully committed to kiteboarding at the age of 13. He dominated the freestyle scene for a long time with his overwhelming power and highly technical tricks.
Career
Showing exceptional talent since his junior years, he won the European Championship in 2004. Following that victory, he spent a long span of 15 years competing at the absolute forefront of the world stage.
Despite suffering career-threatening consecutive ACL tears in 2007 and 2008, his relentless spirit got him through intense rehabilitation, leading to a dramatic comeback as the 2009 PKRA Vice World Champion. He then captured his long-awaited World Champion titles in 2011 and 2012. Although he retired from full-time competing on the world tour in 2018, he continues to heavily influence the scene through coaching and media presence.
Sponsors & Brands
He has been sponsored by Slingshot and Brunotti for many years. In particular, Slingshot’s flagship kite, the RPM (now succeeded by the RPX model), was his iconic gear of choice. His technical feedback significantly contributed to developing products trusted by all riders, from kite schools to world champions.
Personality & Relationships
He possesses an extremely tough and stoic mindset, transforming heavy pressure into fuel for his performance. Known for his uncompromising attitude, his core belief is to deliver 110% in every single heat. Many next-generation top riders, including Andrea Principi and Kevin Langeree, consistently name Youri as their ultimate role model.
Quotes & Episodes
He has always turned setbacks into strength, even laughing it off by saying, “You shouldn’t forget about injuries.” During the 2011 PKRA tour, he showcased absolute dominance by winning 6 out of 7 events. He has also analyzed himself as a slow starter, noting that his very first heat of a competition was usually his worst, and he would progressively tune up as he advanced. Currently focusing heavily on coaching, his training approach is highly praised for unlocking years of rider progression in just a matter of days.
Competition Results
- 2004 European Championship: 1st Place
- 2009 PKRA World Tour: 2nd Place (Vice World Champion)
- 2011 PKRA World Tour: 1st Place (World Champion)
- 2012 PKRA World Tour: 1st Place (World Champion)
- 2016 World Kiteboarding League (WKL): 2nd Place
Search Aliases: Youri Zoon, YouriZoon