Ilia Malinin Dominates Olympic Figure Skating Short Program
The men’s singles figure skating event at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic Games began with high expectations and ended with standout performances, particularly from U.S. figure skater Ilia Malinin. Skating second-to-last, Malinin captured the audience’s attention with his impressive score of 108.16. This marked another victory for the athlete, who remains undefeated since 2023.
Ilia Malinin Shines in Olympic Figure Skating Short Program
Known for his incredible skill and technical precision, Malinin’s short program emphasized control and graceful transitions. His approach was not just about competing; it was about establishing a solid foundation for the upcoming free skate. Following some challenges in the team event, Malinin opted for a calmer strategy this time. “I wanted to take this a little more slowly, a little more calm,” he remarked after his performance.
Record-Breaking Achievements
As a two-time reigning world champion, Malinin has a remarkable history. He entered these Olympics on a 14-competition winning streak and previously set the record for the highest short program score. Nicknamed the “Quad God,” he is the only skater to successfully land a quad Axel in competition. Recently, he made headlines by completing a seven-quad free skate at the Grand Prix Final, further solidifying his reputation in the sport.
- Name: Ilia Malinin
- Score: 108.16
- Winning Streak: 14 competitions
- Unique Achievement: First skater to land a quad Axel
Malinin’s short program, titled “The Lost Crown,” portrayed a message of personal growth and development, which resonated with the audience. The warrior-like intensity of his performance showcased not only his skills but also his mental fortitude on the Olympic stage.
Other Notable Performances
While Malinin took the lead, several other skaters delivered impressive performances. Yuma Kagiyama, the Olympic silver medalist, finished second with a score of 103.07. His program, “I Wish,” was praised for its musicality and technical execution, although he experienced a slight setback with his triple Axel.
- Name: Yuma Kagiyama
- Score: 103.07
- Notable Error: Stepped out of triple Axel
Adam Siao Him Fa achieved a personal-best score of 102.55, showcasing an exceptional blend of artistry and technical skill. His performance, deemed one of the best of his career, placed him firmly in Olympic contention.
- Name: Adam Siao Him Fa
- Score: 102.55
In fourth place, Daniel Grassl, a six-time Italian champion, presented a strong skate to “Tango per la Liberta” while delighting the home crowd. Mikhail Shaidorov, the 2025 world silver medalist, rounded out the top five with a score of 92.94, performing to music from “Dune.” These results reflect the intense competition within the sport of figure skating this Olympic season.
