Chiba Mone holds her nerve to claim first-ever Grand Prix title at Skate Canada, Isabeau Levito second
Chiba Mone let the emotions flow as she celebrated her groundbreaking achievement at the 2025 Skate Canada International in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Under immense pressure, the reigning world bronze medalist dazzled the audience and claimed her first Grand Prix title on November 1, 2025. Chiba skated last, a position filled with both opportunity and dread, and found herself in a challenging contest against the relentless Isabeau Levito.
Leading after the short program, Chiba Mone exhibited incredible composure to perform a stunning free skate, securing a winning score of 217.23. Levito, the talented American skater standing in her way, fought valiantly but ultimately finished with a score of 209.77, eight points behind. While Chiba celebrated her remarkable performance, Levito showcased her emotional investment in the sport as she celebrated her own impressive free skate.
Nakai Ami, the recent winner of Grand Prix de France, rounded out the podium with a strong third-place finish at 203.09, keeping her hopes alive for a chance at the Grand Prix Final. “I’m really happy that I managed to stay composed under pressure and deliver my best today,” Chiba shared with Japanese reporters, highlighting the mental fortitude required in such high-stakes competition. “It still hasn’t sunk in that I won. I want to maintain my momentum as I prepare for the Finlandia Trophy.” She also expressed her joy in savoring this significant victory.
This Grand Prix title boosts Chiba’s prospects for making the Japanese Olympic team, as her performance will weigh heavily in the selection process leading up to Milano Cortina 2026. With this victory, she adds her third Grand Prix medal to her collection following two silvers from the previous season. Meanwhile, two-time U.S. champion Bradie Tennell finished in fourth place with a score of 195.07, and Italy’s Lara Naki Gutmann captured fifth with 192.05.
All eyes will now turn to the next events as competitors gear up for exciting challenges ahead. More to come!
