Meet the American Prodigy Dazzling Italy 2026 with Backflips and Ovechkin’s Laces

At just 21 years old, Ilia Malinin is making waves in the figure skating world. With his signature backflip and the laces of NHL star Alexander Ovechkin, he has captured the attention of the Olympic audience. Malinin’s impressive performances have positioned him as a prominent figure during the Olympics, particularly as he showcases his talents on the ice.

Ilia Malinin: The Rising Star of Figure Skating

Malinin has quickly emerged as the face of American figure skating. His recent achievements include winning a gold medal in the team competition and a deep commitment to excellence. With the upcoming short program scheduled for Tuesday, excitement continues to build around his performances.

The Signature Backflip

Malinin is best known for reintroducing the backflip at the Olympics, a maneuver that had been banned for nearly 30 years. The last time it appeared in Olympic competition was in 1998, when French skater Surya Bonali attempted it in Nagano but faced penalties due to its prohibition by the International Skating Union (ISU).

A Historic Comeback

• Backflips were banned by the ISU since 1976 due to safety concerns following Terry Kubicka’s performance.
• In June 2024, the ISU lifted the ban on backflips, allowing skaters to perform them in competitions.
• Ilia Malinin and French skater Adam Siao Him Fa have successfully executed backflips in international competitions since the ban was lifted.

Despite the controversial nature of the backflip, Malinin executes it with remarkable skill. However, judges tend to evaluate it differently, as the landing typically requires both feet, which does not meet the ISU’s jumping standards. It remains a spectacular acrobatic maneuver nonetheless.

The Ovechkin Connection

Notably, Malinin is seen practicing in bright yellow laces reminiscent of Alexander Ovechkin, a gesture from the Washington Capitals player. Ovechkin gifted these laces to Malinin before the Games, symbolizing a supportive connection between sports.

A Multicultural Background

Born in Fairfax, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., Malinin’s background is also unique. He is bilingual, fluent in Russian, reflecting his heritage with parents from Uzbekistan who were also figure skaters. This diverse upbringing adds depth to his story as he shines on the international stage.

As the Olympics progress, expect to hear more about Ilia Malinin. His remarkable skills and captivating performances are poised to secure a lasting legacy in figure skating while dazzling audiences worldwide.