Sakamoto Kaori: Japan’s Figure Skating Star Set to Launch Coaching Career After Olympic Gold Near-Miss
In a bittersweet twist of fate, Sakamoto Kaori has announced her transition from competitive skater to “Coach Sakamoto.” The beloved 25-year-old skater, fresh off an inspiring but disappointing performance at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, is turning the page on her illustrious career.
Falling short of Olympic gold by a mere 1.89 points, Sakamoto returns home with two silver medals—the team event and singles competition. Despite earning accolades throughout her career, including three world championships and six Japanese national titles, the sting of a near miss lingers. “The score was so close, and I didn’t execute cleanly,” she reflected. “If I had, gold was within reach.”
As Sakamoto gears up to start her coaching career this April, she is excited, yet humble. “I’ll be nothing more than a trainee at first,” Sakamoto stated. At her rink, she is eager to learn under the tutelage of experienced coaches, echoing her respect for pioneers like Nakano Sonoko and Mitsuko Graham.
Influenced by her sisters who are educators, Sakamoto aims to cultivate future talents, saying, “I want to be a coach of tough love.” This notion resonates with the string of mentors in her life, who taught her that even setbacks can pave the way for future achievements.
Regarding her experience in PyeongChang, Beijing, and now Milano Cortina, Sakamoto recalls a mix of joy and stress, especially the health scare in her first Olympics. Each Games has shaped her differently, culminating in an unforgettable career filled with personal triumphs and challenges.
Although her hopes for Olympic gold went unfulfilled, Sakamoto is resolving to shift her focus to developing future stars. “There’s a bitter taste left in my mouth… but I like to think my growth is evident through my frustration,” she added, a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence.
Sakamoto Kaori’s journey from world-class competitor to coach marks a significant moment in figure skating history, highlighting her commitment to the sport. As she prepares for her new role, the skating community eagerly awaits the legacy she will undoubtedly create.
