Out of the shadows: The early arrival of Japan’s 17-year-old Nakai Ami at the Winter Olympics
The spotlight shines brightly on Nakai Ami, who has suddenly made her mark in the world of professional figure skating with her entry into the Olympic arena. Just 17 years old and competing in her first senior season, the Grand Prix Final silver medalist never expected to be positioned for such a monumental event like the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.
Reflecting on this meteoric rise, Nakai explains, “When the season started, I wasn’t thinking about the Olympics at all.” Oblivious to the unfolding excitement, Nakai put one skate in front of the other, never addressing the potential significance of her budding career until unexpectedly securing her Olympic spot.
Born in Niigata Prefecture, Nakai fell in love with skating as a child, idolizing the accomplished Olympic silver medalist Asada Mao. Fast forward to her impressive performance throughout the season, in which she stunned audiences with a repertoire that includes a coveted triple Axel. Nakai’s achievements have not only garnered her individual accolades, but they also led her to be selected alongside well-established competitors for the Games.
While some may see her as a one-dimensional skater with a signature triple Axel, Nakai demonstrates far more versatility. She can execute five additional triple jumps, showcasing impressive skills and a remarkable capacity to adapt during performances. “Even if I don’t land the triple Axel,” she notes, “I figured out how to score the points I need.”
Nakai’s mental toughness adds depth to her skill set, as illustrated by her introspective approach to self-evaluation. By reviewing her own performances and engaging in mental training, she equips herself to face the rigors of competitive NHL skating.
Stepping onto the Olympic stage is just the beginning for Nakai. Balancing aspirations for the present with insights aiming for the next Winter Games in 2030, she embodies a blend of youth and wisdom rarely seen in such a young athlete. She hopes to make this Olympic experience not just a competition, but the “brightest moment of her life.”
As professional figure skating fandom anticipates her debut in this prestigious realm, there’s no denying—Nakai Ami is just getting started, and the skating world should brace itself for what this prodigy brings next.
