Maxim Naumov Honors Late Parents with Poignant Olympic Debut
Maxim Naumov made a significant impact at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The American figure skater not only showcased his talent but also honored the memory of his late parents. Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, both accomplished Olympians, tragically lost their lives in a plane crash on January 29, 2025.
Olympic Debut with a Purpose
Naumov, 24, dedicated his free skate performance to his parents, embodying a journey of self-discovery. He believes in the power of self-reflection, stating, “To show up at the biggest stage… that’s such a powerful thing.” His skating was not just a competition but a heartfelt tribute.
Emotional Performance
Set to “In Your Shirt” by The Irrepresibles, Naumov’s free skate resonated deeply. He expressed his personal journey through the music, stating, “In this shirt, I can be you, to be near you for a while.” This emotional connection was palpable as he poured his heart into every movement.
Technical Skills and Achievements
- Placed 14th in the short program with a score of 85.65 points.
- Scored an additional 137.71 points in the free skate.
- Opened with a quad Salchow followed by a triple Axel.
- Executed the triple Axel-double Axel and triple Lutz-double toeloop combinations.
Naumov’s performance was a testament to his resilience. Despite a fall on the quad Salchow, the audience erupted in support. His journey to the Olympics had already been a remarkable achievement, and he continued to spread a message of hope and strength.
A Legacy of Support
In the past year, Naumov has faced profound grief while finding ways to honor his parents. He participated in the Legacy on Ice benefit in Washington, D.C., raising funds for victims’ families. His bronze medal at the U.S. national championships secured his place on Team USA, allowing him to compete on an international stage.
Naumov concluded his performance with gratitude, thanking the audience and acknowledging their support. His Olympic debut was not only a significant athletic achievement but also a powerful tribute to his parents’ legacy.
