In a dazzling display of athleticism and artistry, two-time reigning U.S. and world champion Ilia Malinin captured his third consecutive Skate America title on Sunday, electrifying the crowd with a history-making performance that included a once-banned backflip and a series of stunning quadruple jumps.
Malinin Overcomes Early Mistake, Alters Program on the Fly
Despite admitting to feeling more nervous than usual, the 18-year-old skating sensation showcased his incredible adaptability and quick thinking when he doubled a planned quad loop early in his free skate. Undeterred, Malinin made swift changes to his program, determined to make up for the lost points.
“It was a pretty challenging moment for me, just stepping on the ice,” Malinin confessed. “That may have played a part in the whole program.” However, the young star’s ability to think on his feet and adjust his routine mid-performance is a testament to his exceptional skill and mental fortitude.
Banned Backflip Steals the Show
The highlight of Malinin’s free skate came in the form of a gravity-defying backflip, a move that had been prohibited in competition until this season due to its inherent risk. As he launched into the air, the arena held its collective breath, erupting into thunderous applause as he landed the flip flawlessly.
“It was really hard for me in the middle of the program to think what I have to do—what I need to do,” Malinin admitted when asked about the early mistake. “I just went full autopilot through there, and I’m glad I made it out.”
Ilia Malinin
Aymoz and Miura Round Out the Podium
France’s Kevin Aymoz, who struggled at the end of last season, mounted an impressive challenge for the top spot with a career-best free skate that earned him a standing ovation and a silver medal. Japan’s Kao Miura, the former world junior champion who was second after the short program, claimed bronze despite an under-rotated triple axel and a step sequence misstep.
The Future of Figure Skating
As the dust settles on another unforgettable Skate America, one thing is clear: Ilia Malinin is the future of figure skating. With his unparalleled technical prowess, artistic flair, and ability to captivate audiences, the young American is poised to dominate the sport for years to come.
Malinin’s historic performance not only secured his third straight Skate America title but also sent a resounding message to his rivals and fans alike—the bar has been raised, and the future of figure skating is more thrilling than ever.
As the skating world eagerly awaits Malinin’s next appearance on the ice, one can only imagine what new heights he will reach and what boundaries he will continue to push. With the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy on the horizon, the young American is undoubtedly the one to watch, and his journey promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
“It was a pretty challenging moment for me, just stepping on the ice,” Malinin confessed. “That may have played a part in the whole program.” However, the young star’s ability to think on his feet and adjust his routine mid-performance is a testament to his exceptional skill and mental fortitude.
Banned Backflip Steals the Show
The highlight of Malinin’s free skate came in the form of a gravity-defying backflip, a move that had been prohibited in competition until this season due to its inherent risk. As he launched into the air, the arena held its collective breath, erupting into thunderous applause as he landed the flip flawlessly.
“It was really hard for me in the middle of the program to think what I have to do—what I need to do,” Malinin admitted when asked about the early mistake. “I just went full autopilot through there, and I’m glad I made it out.”
Ilia Malinin
Aymoz and Miura Round Out the Podium
France’s Kevin Aymoz, who struggled at the end of last season, mounted an impressive challenge for the top spot with a career-best free skate that earned him a standing ovation and a silver medal. Japan’s Kao Miura, the former world junior champion who was second after the short program, claimed bronze despite an under-rotated triple axel and a step sequence misstep.
The Future of Figure Skating
As the dust settles on another unforgettable Skate America, one thing is clear: Ilia Malinin is the future of figure skating. With his unparalleled technical prowess, artistic flair, and ability to captivate audiences, the young American is poised to dominate the sport for years to come.
Malinin’s historic performance not only secured his third straight Skate America title but also sent a resounding message to his rivals and fans alike—the bar has been raised, and the future of figure skating is more thrilling than ever.
As the skating world eagerly awaits Malinin’s next appearance on the ice, one can only imagine what new heights he will reach and what boundaries he will continue to push. With the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy on the horizon, the young American is undoubtedly the one to watch, and his journey promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
