Ilia Malinin Pursues Gold in Men’s Figure Skating at Winter Olympics
Ilia Malinin is preparing to compete for gold in the men’s figure skating event at the Milan Cortina Olympics. Widely hailed as the best figure skater today, the 21-year-old American known as the “Quad God” holds a significant advantage heading into the free skate.
Current Standings and Achievements
After the short program, Malinin leads with a five-point margin over Japan’s Yuma Kagiyama and France’s Adam Siao Him Fa. He remains undefeated for over two years, boasting 14 consecutive victories across various competitions.
- Four-time U.S. champion
- Two-time world champion
- Holds the world record for free skate with 238.24 points
Training Strategy
Malinin opted for a unique training approach, practicing at U.S. Figure Skating’s alternate base in Bergamo instead of participating in the typical warm-up session at the Milano Ice Skating Area. This strategy allows him to maintain focus and minimize waiting time before his performance.
Technical Advantage
The free skate format features seven jumping passes, enhancing Malinin’s chances of success. He plans to execute a record-tying seven quadruple jumps, whereas his closest competitors, Kagiyama and Siao Him Fa, will attempt four each.
Historic Jump Attempt
Malinin might also attempt the quad axel, the first of its kind at the Olympics. This jump is exceptionally challenging as it requires an extra half rotation compared to traditional jumps. Despite the difficulty, Malinin has successfully landed it in competition before.
Recent Performances
So far, Malinin has won a gold medal in the team event, where he faced some pressure but ultimately showcased his skill in the free skate. Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledged the initial nerves but has since regained his confidence heading into the free program.
Malinin is focused on performing at his best, making a name for himself in Olympic history. As he prepares for the free skate, all eyes will be on whether he can deliver a performance worthy of a gold medal.
