Figure Skating – Skate America 2025: France’s Kevin Aymoz captures first career Grand Prix gold at age 28
An emotional Kevin Aymoz has finally realized his dream of standing atop the podium, as he captured his first career Grand Prix gold medal at Skate America 2025. The competition, held in Lake Placid, New York, became a thrilling showdown during the men’s free skate event on Saturday night, November 15th.
The 28-year-old French figure skater accumulated a total of 253.53 points, narrowly surpassing 2025 world silver medallist Mikhail Shaidorov from Kazakhstan, who finished with 251.09 points. Aymoz’s triumph comes in his 13th Grand Prix competition, marking a key milestone in his career.
Despite starting the event strong, short program leader Tomono Kazuki could not maintain his momentum, slipping to third place with a score of 245.57. American figure skating star Jason Brown came in fourth, earning 239.59 points from an enthusiastic home crowd.
Reflecting on his journey, Aymoz has been candid about his battles with mental health and eating disorders, which nearly led him to leave the sport. He shared that his enduring passion for skating acted as a powerful motivator, inspiring him to persevere against the odds. Aymoz is also no stranger to success, having previously secured six French national championship titles and finishing fifth at the 2025 World Championships.
When the scores came in, Aymoz couldn’t contain his emotions, expressing sheer joy as he learned he had clinched the victory after Tomono’s performance. Skate America represents the fifth of six events in the International Skating Union (ISU) Grand Prix of Figure Skating this Olympic season. As competitors aim to secure one of the six coveted spots at the upcoming Grand Prix Final in Nagoya, Japan, the stakes are exceptionally high.
As the series approaches its conclusion with Grand Prix Finland next week, fans eagerly anticipate more dramatic performances.
Stay tuned for all results, scores, standings, and updates from Skate America 2025!
