Japanese Skaters Dominate Short Program as Olympic Figure Skating Intensifies
In a stunning display of athleticism and artistry, Japanese figure skaters Ami Nakai and Kaori Sakamoto seized the spotlight during the women's short program at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Tuesday night. Nakai, riding the momentum of a flawless opening triple axel, posted a career-best score of 78.71 points, while three-time world champion Sakamoto followed closely with 77.23 points. Their performances have positioned Japan strongly for a potential podium sweep in the upcoming free skate.
American Contenders Face Mixed Fortunes
Alysa Liu of the United States delivered a nearly perfect routine, earning 76.59 points to secure third place. "My goal is just to do my programs and share my story," Liu remarked, emphasizing her focus on personal expression over competition. However, her fellow American skaters encountered setbacks. Isabeau Levito, after losing a level on her step sequence, finished eighth with 70.84 points, while three-time U.S. champion Amber Glenn saw her medal hopes dim when she doubled a triple loop, resulting in an invalid jump and a score of 67.39 points, placing her 13th. "I had it," Glenn told her coach, who reassured her, "It's not over."
Neutral Athlete Petrosian Makes Surprise Impact
Adeliia Petrosian, competing as a neutral athlete due to Russia's ban from international events, emerged as a dark horse in the competition. The 18-year-old, coached by the controversial Eteri Tutberidze, performed to a medley of Michael Jackson hits, landing a double axel, triple lutz, and a triple flip-triple toe loop with apparent ease. She scored 74.00 points, placing just behind Japan's Mone Chiba. "I'm quite pleased with my score. It's good," Petrosian said in Russian, expressing hope to join the top skaters in the same warm-up group for the free skate.
Nakai and Sakamoto Set Sights on Gold
The 17-year-old Nakai, inspired by skating legend Mao Asada, executed a triple loop-triple toe loop combination and a finishing triple loop to build a significant technical lead. Despite her success, she remained humble, stating, "There's no way I stand a chance against Kaori. Right now I'm just enjoying these Olympics." Sakamoto, 25, nearly closed the technical gap with her renowned artistry, giving a subtle fist-pump after her combination. Both skaters are poised to challenge for gold in Thursday's free skate, which will conclude the figure skating program at the Winter Games.
Liu's Comeback Story Adds Emotional Depth
Alysa Liu, who finished sixth at the Beijing Games before stepping away from the sport due to burnout, has made a remarkable return. After a hiatus spent pursuing personal goals, a ski trip reignited her passion for skating. Now, as the first American woman to win a world title in nearly two decades, Liu is on the cusp of making history. A strong performance in the free skate could give the U.S. its first women's Olympic champion since Sarah Hughes in 2002. "I can't even describe how different it is," Liu reflected, highlighting her confidence and joy in competing on her own terms.
The stage is set for a dramatic finale, with Nakai leading the charge, Sakamoto in pursuit, and Liu and Petrosian ready to challenge the Japanese dominance. The women's free skate promises to be a highlight of the Milan Cortina Olympics, showcasing the pinnacle of figure skating talent and determination.
