In a dazzling display of athleticism and artistry, Sakamoto Kaori delivered an astonishing performance during the women’s free skate segment of the figure skating team event at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Her breathtaking routine, set to an Edith Piaf medley, secured a top score of 148.62 points, pulling Japan into a tie for first place with the USA as the competition heated up.
Having already excelled in both the short and free programs, the three-time world champion demonstrated her prowess, landing ten jumps including six triples—an impressive feat that earned her high marks across the board. “I messed up the triple combo but managed to secure 10 points in both segments, which was a huge sigh of relief,” Sakamoto expressed emotionally, reflecting on her journey alongside teammates Kagiyama Yuma, Miura Riku, and Kihara Ryuichi, all silver medallists from Beijing 2022.
Each skater contributed significantly, vying for Japan’s elusive gold medal in the team event that has remained out of reach since its inception at Sochi 2014. With teams performing at their maximum levels, Japan and the USA remained locked at 59 points, paving the way for an exciting finale. Team USA’s Amber Glenn, stepping onto Olympic ice for the first time, recaptured the energy mid-performance despite a shaky start that saw her score reach 138.62 points.
Meanwhile, Georgia’s rising star, Anastasiia Gubanova, climbed to second place overall with a solid score of 140.17 points. Gubanova’s impressive ride on the ice showcased her focus and commitment, echoing sentiments of her teammates as they worked together fostering not only individual success but a united front. “That’s the most important thing right now, to try to give the country as many chances as possible to fight for a medal,” Gubanova articulated.
The thrilling competition continued as anticipation builds heading into the men’s free skate segment, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the team event at Milano Cortina 2026. With Japan and the USA neck and neck, viewers are on the edge of their seats, keen to witness who will claim the coveted gold medal in an event that has captivated audiences around the globe.
