The Sparkle Showcased by Kaori Sakamoto and Mone Chiba Leading to Milan

After the awards ceremony, Kaori Sakamoto (24) put her arm around Mone Chiba (19), and both of them couldn’t help but smile.

At the Figure Skating World Championships held until March 29 (Japan time), Japanese skaters performed excellently, with Sakamoto taking second place, Chiba finishing third, and Wakaba Higuchi (24) securing sixth place, all earning top rankings.

“This competition was crucial as it determined the spots for the 2026 Milan Olympics. Sakamoto and Higuchi both showed tears after their performances, as the athletes faced pressure beyond imagination,” said a reporter from a national sports newspaper.

With the combined ranking of the top two skaters totaling “13” or less, Japan secured three spots for the Olympics. This kept hopes alive for a gold medal in Milan. Akiko Suzuki, who has two Olympic appearances and is currently a commentator, shared her thoughts:

“Sakamoto was nearly perfect aside from a jump mistake in the short program, showing not only technical skill but also mental strength. Chiba, too, had grown, as the stiffness in her face at the start of her routine, which was present last year, was gone.

While she didn’t compete in the World Championships, other strong contenders like Hana Yoshida (19), who excels in the triple axel, and Rino Matsuike (20), known for her beautiful skating, are waiting in the wings. The competition for the three Olympic spots will now intensify with high-level battles.”

This season, young skaters like Chiba, who won the bronze medal, have been thriving. Who will shine with the brightest sparkle next winter?

 

From “FRIDAY” April 18, 2025 edition.