Ilia Malinin Secures Olympic Gold for George Mason
Ilia Malinin, a student at George Mason University, has made history by winning a team gold medal in figure skating at the Milano Cortina Winter Games. This victory marks him as the first student or alumni from George Mason to achieve a Winter Olympics gold medal.
Ilia Malinin’s Olympic Achievement
Competing on February 7, Malinin, the current reigning world champion and a 21-year-old exploratory studies major, played a significant role in securing the gold for Team USA. His performance helped the United States outshine Japan in a thrilling showdown.
His Olympic Debut
This event marks Malinin’s first participation in the Olympics. He expressed his determination, stating, “This is your moment—it’s either do or die.” Malinin emphasized the importance of confidence and focus, reiterating that he embraced the pressure to perform.
Malinin’s Unique Talent
- Known as the “Quad God,” Malinin is famed for his remarkable jumping ability.
- He is the only figure skater to successfully land a quad axel in competition, a move requiring four and a half revolutions.
- During the competition, he executed five quad jumps, showcasing his skill and agility.
Support from the Mason Community
To celebrate his historic win, large TV screens were set up in the Johnson Center atrium on the Fairfax Campus and in the lobby of Fuse at Mason Square. This allowed students and fans to gather and support their champion.
Looking Ahead
Malinin is poised to continue his success as he prepares for the men’s singles competition on February 10, starting at 12:30 p.m. Expectations are high for the talented athlete, who has already captured the attention of the Olympic community with his charisma and groundbreaking performances.
