Winter Olympics 2026: Kagiyama Yuma plans free-skate quad flip as dagger to Ilia Malinin
Japan’s three-time Olympic silver medallist, Kagiyama Yuma, has caught the world’s attention at the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina 2026, standing just five points behind the men’s singles leader Ilia Malinin from the USA. After the men’s short program on February 10, expectations are soaring as Kagiyama sets his sights on a stunning free-skate performance.
Kagiyama, who previously contributed to his country’s silver in the team event with an impressive score of 108.67, encountered a setback during his short program, where he troubled his landing on a triple Axel, resulting in his score of 103.07. Now, he has devised a game plan for the free skate that aims directly at Malinin’s prowess.
Malinin, renowned as the “Quad God,” plans to execute a breathtaking seven-quad timid, including the unprecedented quadruple Axel at these Winter Games. At the December Grand Prix Final, he demonstrated his capability by landing all seven quads, achieving a world record that created a significant point gap between him and Kagiyama.
Fully aware that he must adopt a bold approach to clinch gold, Kagiyama aims to perform a quad flip during his free skate. “I have absolute confidence in the flip. I really do. I’m going all out from start to finish,” he affirmed, emphasizing his intent to produce a performance that resonates deeply with both himself and the audience.
This year, Kagiyama has radiated a vibrant energy, presenting perhaps positioned uniquely at this global event. Having already garnered three Olympic silver medals, he feels the pressure is matched with exhilaration. “I was focused on the jumps and all the elements, but I had too much force on the Axel which was a shame,” he admitted, already looking ahead to what can become a remarkable Friday for him.
As excitement builds for the free skate showdown, fans eagerly await whether Kagiyama can transform determination into victory, making for a gripping narrative in professional figure skating.
