At the Japan Figure Skating Championships 2025, held in Tokyo on December 20, pairs champions Miura Riku and Kihara Ryuichi showcased not just their athletic skill but extraordinary resilience by topping the short program under challenging circumstances. Despite Miura dislocating her left shoulder during warm-ups, the duo performed impressively, earning a season-best score of 84.91.
Miura’s shoulder injury is no stranger to the couple, having plagued her since 2022. After briefly popping the joint back into place, she decided to take the ice, a decision that solidified their reputation as contenders for the gold medal at the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
Their performance led them well ahead of runners-up Nagaoka Yuna and Moriguchi Sumitada, who scored 72.91. Kagotani Ayumi and Honda Lucas Tsuyoshi finished in third with 48.33, rounding out a competitive field. Miura expressed her commitment to compete in Sunday’s free skate, stating, “There’s not much time until tomorrow, and we want to show everything we’ve worked on.”
Miura’s battle against the pain reflects their unwavering determination. “(The pain) was the worst at the Final last year, but we found a way through both the short and free which gave us a lot of confidence,” she explained. Kihara added, “My heart almost stopped,” referring to the precarious nature of their performance amidst injury. “This is a sign of our growth; we built on previous experiences to improve.”
This emotional rollercoaster at the Japan Figure Skating Championships demonstrates not only Miura and Kihara’s talent but also their mental fortitude. Their evolution as athletes enhances their Olympic aspirations, making them pairs skaters to watch as they prepare for the demanding and exhilarating challenges that lie ahead.
