Winter Olympics 2026: Will Sakamoto Kaori do her final skate at World Championships?
When asked about her plans for next month’s World Figure Skating Championships in Prague, four-time Olympic medallist Sakamoto Kaori delivered a surprising response. Currently, the event, scheduled from March 23 to March 29, is anticipated to be the Japanese star’s final competition. Following her recent accomplishments, Sakamoto expressed uncertainty about her participation.
After securing her second Olympic silver medal at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Sakamoto was met with questions regarding her future on the ice.
“I’m going to withhold comment on the World Championships,” Sakamoto stated at the Japan House on February 20, alongside 17-year-old bronze medallist Nakai Ami.
This season marks the end of Sakamoto’s illustrious career in figure skating, particularly significant as she has been selected for the World Championships team. She previously triumphed at this event, clinching gold for three consecutive years from 2022 through 2024. Additionally, she achieved her fifth national title in December, signaling a continued dominance in the sport.
During the Winter Games, Sakamoto narrowly missed her first Olympic gold medal, falling short by less than two points to the United States’ Alysa Liu after what was reported as her final skate at the event.
Holding four Olympic medals, Sakamoto is now tied with Kagiyama Yuma for the most Olympic medals accumulated by a Japanese figure skater. A historic milestone was also reached as Sakamoto and Nakai marked the first time two Japanese women shared the Olympic figure skating podium.
“Honestly, I have nothing more to give,” the 25-year-old reflected. “This season was my last, and while the result was frustrating, I’ve given my all for the past 21 years. I truly have no regrets.”
As she prepares to transition into coaching, Sakamoto Kaori looks to influence the next generation of skaters, aiming to elevate future golden champions from her home nation.
