Figure Skating Stars Step Back
Key Questions
Why is Yuma Kagiyama taking a break from figure skating?
Yuma Kagiyama, an Olympic individual and team silver medalist for Japan in 2022 and 2026, plans to take a break from competition during the 2026-27 season to pursue personal projects.
Has Kaori Sakamoto retired from competitive figure skating?
Yes, Kaori Sakamoto has retired after winning gold at the World Championships. She plans to transition into a coaching role.
How are recent changes creating opportunities for skaters like Ilia Malinin?
With stars like Yuma Kagiyama stepping back and Kaori Sakamoto retiring, openings arise for rivals. Ilia Malinin has shone with a team Olympic gold and maintains a friendship with Mikaela Shiffrin amid updated World Standings showing rises for skaters like Daniel Grassl to #8.
World Standings refresh post-Olympics: Grassl to #8, Selevko #12, Gogolev #22. Yuma Kagiyama takes 2026-27 break; Kaori Sakamoto retires post-Worlds gold to coach. Malinin shines in team Olympic gold and Shiffrin friendship amid rival openings.