Exquisite Ilia Malinin powers to Skate Canada victory, setting new world record in free skate
Ilia Malinin has levelled up – again. The two-time and reigning world champion achieved an astonishing victory at the 2025 Skate Canada International in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, held on November 2. Not only did he win, but he also set a new world record for the men’s free skate, scoring an impressive 228.97 and exceeding his previous record of 227.79 from the 2024 World Championships.
With a combined score of 333.81 points, Malinin secured an outstanding 76-point lead over runner-up Aleksandr Selevko from Estonia, who finished with 257.21 points. While Malinin fell short of the all-time best overall score—originally set by Olympic champion Nathan Chen in 2019 at the Grand Prix Final—his victory is undeniably significant. This win marks his 12th consecutive international event victory, demonstrating his dominance in the sport.
“I feel really satisfied with my program today,” Malinin stated when speaking to reporters. “It’s one of the best programs I’ve done this season. I really worked on the cleanliness on the ice after Grand Prix de France, and I felt that out there today.” He opened the Olympic season with a superb 40-point win at the recent Grand Prix de France.
Selevko’s outstanding performance earned him not just a silver medal but also advanced his chances for Estonia’s lone men’s spot at the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, marking a historic moment for his country as it clutched its first Grand Prix medal in men’s singles.
Japan’s Miura Kao and Tomono Kazuki captivated audiences as they contended for the bronze. Miura ultimately edged out his compatriot, scoring 253.69 to Tomono’s 251.46.
Despite initially occupying fifth place after the short program, France’s Kévin Aymoz struggled with his jumps and finished 10th overall with a score of 230.10.
With this latest success, fans can eagerly anticipate Malinin’s performance at the Grand Prix Final in Nagoya, Japan, next month, where he will defend his title. More thrilling updates and analysis to come!
