Discover Why ‘Quad God’ Ilia Malinin Excels at Figure Skating’s Toughest Jumps

Ilia Malinin, a remarkable figure skater from Virginia, has garnered attention for his extraordinary skills on the ice. Recently, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, the 21-year-old executed a breathtaking backflip during a performance, a feat known as the “Bonaly flip.” Although it did not earn him technical points, it marked him as the first skater to legally perform this move at the Olympics.

Quad God: The Rise of Ilia Malinin

Malinin earned the nickname “Quad God” after making history as the first athlete to land the quadruple axel in competition at just 17 years old in 2022. This complex maneuver involves four and a half rotations and is the only basic jump with a forward takeoff, which adds to its difficulty.

Expert Insights on Malinin’s Technique

• Natural Talent: Sports writer Pj Kwong emphasized that Malinin’s success with quad jumps stems from his natural talent as a jumper.
• Influential Legacy: He has also drawn inspiration from past skating legends, including Canada’s Kurt Browning, who became the first to land a ratified quad jump in 1988.

According to Browning, the quadruple axel is considered the “king of jumps” due to its forward takeoff, challenging conventional jumping techniques. Malinin’s ability to execute this jump stems from his unique spring and mental fortitude.

The Impact of Family Background

Ilia Malinin’s achievements can also be attributed to his upbringing. Both of his parents, Tatiana Malinina and Roman Skorniakov, are former Olympic skaters from Uzbekistan. Their guidance has undoubtedly played a vital role in shaping his career.

Consistency and Humanity in Skating

During the Olympic team event, Malinin achieved a score of 98.00 points, securing second place. His performance helped maintain the United States’ top position overall in figure skating.

Despite his significant accomplishments, Malinin remains grounded. He expressed a desire for fans to see him as relatable. “I wouldn’t tell people I’m untouchable. I want the opposite,” he stated. His humility and connection to the audience make him not just a star, but a role model in the sport.