Three-time world champion figure skater Sakamoto Kaori on how her silver medal makes her “a challenger again” – Exclusive
At the 2025 ISU World Championships in Boston, figures were on display beyond just the scores. After an emotional performance, Sakamoto Kaori, three-time reigning world champion, found herself in tears, having finished as a runner-up to American star Alysa Liu.
“I just have a lot of emotions bottled up inside of me,” Sakamoto shared, reflecting on a comeback that, unfortunately, concluded with silver but sparked a new mindset.
Arriving as the contender, expectations were sky-high for Sakamoto. However, despite the shocking result, her reaction was soon underscored by a determination that transcended the podium. “I’d like to think what we accomplished here will lead to bigger and bigger things at the Olympics,” she explained.
For the seasoned skater, this moment was not just about loss, but also revelation. “I think if I had kept winning [world titles], I would have been beyond nervous at the Olympics,” she confessed. “This experience gives me tremendous insight as I plan for 2026.”
Her off-season strategies have been refined following a profound emotional journey, as she aims to convert her setbacks into a winning advantage in Milano Cortina 2026. Sakamoto remarked on this transformative journey into competition: “I’m glad I was able to go through the pressure and experience of finishing second now,” embracing her role as a challenger once more.
While reflecting on her performance, Sakamoto recognized her growth amid the challenges faced throughout recent competitions. Her enlightened mindset reaffirms a vital lesson as she readies herself for tough avenues ahead, such as facing her talented rivals.
As she looks towards upcoming events, including Team Japan’s participation in the world-ending World Team Trophy event in Tokyo April 17-20, Sakamoto remains focused, noting, “The gratitude and sense of accomplishment is what makes it worthwhile.”
The spotlight remains bright on this iconic figure skater, glowing ever stronger with her determination to embrace the challenges and, ultimately, return to the pinnacle of her sport.
