Japan Figure Skating Championships 2025: Born-again Sato Shun shows renewed confidence as he chases first Olympics
What a difference a year makes.
At last year’s Japan Figure Skating Championships in Osaka, Sato Shun was a train wreck of a mess. He started off sixth in the short program, finishing seventh overall. Sato was so distraught after his free skate that he needed medical attention for hyperventilation, sobbing during post-competition media. It was far from a memorable day for the former Junior Grand Prix Final champion.
Fast forward to Dec 18 at the Yoyogi National Stadium in Tokyo. Sato is carrying himself like a different person, displaying the confidence of an athlete coming off a personal best at the Grand Prix Final two weeks earlier.
“Last year, I was nervous in practice the day before, but this time I felt good and know I’m right where I want to be,” said Sato after official practice. “I just have to go out and get the job done tomorrow.”
Alongside him, Shimada Mao is poised to be the X factor in a tight race for the Japanese women’s qualifying spot. The Japan Figure Skating Championships 2025 promises excitement as viewers eagerly await results. Sato, in particular, puts quality over quantity in his training, eager to avoid the mistakes that plagued him last season.
“I’ve been taking it easy and focused on getting rest after the Final. I want to avoid a repeat of my previous mistakes,” said Sato. “A podium finish here should secure one of the three men’s spots for Milano Cortina 2026.”
Ultimately, Sato’s mental fortitude bodes well for his Olympic qualification. As the soft-spoken athlete evolves into a powerhouse performer, some speculate he may even challenge Kagiyama Yuma for the top spot this week, though Sato remains focused solely on his own performance.
“While I want to elevate my game, I must manage my nerves,” he added. “The priority is achieving a new season best, not the standings.”
All eyes are on Sato Shun as he seeks redemption at this pivotal event, promising a new chapter in his skating career. The Japan Figure Skating Championships 2025 set the stage for exciting competition leading into the Olympic Winter Games.
