The Top 5 Figure Skating Moments from the 2026 Olympics

Reflecting on the Ice: A Season of Dreams

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan brought a whirlwind of emotions, particularly in figure skating—a discipline where artistry and athleticism intertwine in breathtaking displays. From surprising upsets to soaring comebacks, the ice carried stories of resilience and glory as we watched the competitors push the boundaries of their craft.

While the gala following the medal ceremonies celebrated the event's spirit, my focus lingers on the unforgettable routines that left spectators breathless. Here are the five performances that stood out in various ways, reminding us all why we love this beautiful discipline.

Mikhail Shaidorov's Milan Shocker

Photo by Catherine Steenkeste

In an electrifying event, Kazakhstan's Mikhail Shaidorov clinched the gold in a performance that will be dissected for years to come. Although much of the competition was marred by falls from strong rivals, Shaidorov held his ground. In the most challenging of conditions, watching him glide gracefully across the ice felt like witnessing history. With technical complexity soaring above the rest, his resilience was a marvel as he executed each move with precision.

“Their jewel was the skate of Shaidorov... a quintessential moment where focus met execution.”

Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier Dance the Night Away

Image of Gilles and Poirier

The ice dance competition may have been overshadowed by controversies, yet the duo of Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier captivated the audience with their enchanting routine. Combining impeccable artistry with chemistry, their performance was a standout that showed true partnership. Even though they settled for bronze, the elegance with which they danced left a lasting mark.

Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara Create the Perfect Comeback

Miura and Kihara in action

The Japanese pair Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara showed incredible fortitude after struggling in the short program. Faced with immense pressure, they rose to the occasion, delivering a performance that broke records. Their flawless execution ignited the arena and sent them straight to the top of the podium, capturing gold with both heart and skill.

Yuma Kagiyama Slays the "Quad God"

Yuma Kagiyama performing

Yuma Kagiyama proved once again why he is considered a mantle of excellence in men's figure skating. His short program in the team event was an exemplary mix of artistry and technical prowess. As he flawlessly executed his spins and transitions, he captured not only the audience's attention but that of the judges as well. Ilia Malinin's daring routine featured multiple quads, but that night belonged to Kagiyama. The fluidity and storytelling he infused into each movement were mesmerizing.

Alysa Liu: Winning Gold on Her Own Terms

Alysa Liu gliding on the ice

Alysa Liu didn't just win gold; she won hearts. Her free skate performance embodied the essence of figure skating's heart and soul. Liu's radiant smile throughout evoked joy, reminding us that the sport is as much an emotional experience as it is an athletic competition. While critiques may arise regarding the technique, her aim was to leave an impression rather than merely chase scores—a testament to her understanding of the sport's artistry.

As we reflect on these golden moments from the Olympics, we recognize not just the winners but the essence of determination and creativity that makes figure skating so enrapturing. These performances will inspire future generations to grace the ice, evolving their stories and dreams.