TURIN, Jan. 17 (Xinhua) — The males’s single skating quick program on the Torino 2025 FISU World University Winter Games took middle stage on the Palavela enviornment, with Japanese star Yuma Kagiyama stealing the highlight.
The 21-year-old Olympic silver medalist delivered a shocking efficiency, incomes a season-best rating of 106.82 factors. Kagiyama holds a commanding 10-point lead heading into the free skating last.
OLYMPIC SUCCESS AND HUMILITY
Kagiyama made his Olympic debut on the Beijing 2022 Games, incomes 310.05 factors within the singles occasion and contributing to Japan’s bronze medal within the group competitors with a free skate rating of 208.94. Despite his accolades, Kagiyama stays grounded.
“For me, I always approach competitions with the mindset of staying true to my roots,” he stated. “I don’t let the fact that I’m an Olympic medalist make me feel proud or complacent. Even for today’s competition, past honors don’t weigh on me-I stay calm and focused.”
This mindset has fueled continued success for the Chukyo University scholar. Since Beijing, Kagiyama has received silver on the 2024 World Championships, bronze on the ISU Grand Prix Final, gold on the 2024-25 ISU Grand Prix in Helsinki, and his first All-Japan Championship title in December.
EMBRACING EXPECTATIONS
“Before winning the All-Japan Championship, I felt anxious because of societal pressure,” Kagiyama shared. “But after becoming the champion, I no longer felt pushed by external expectations, and I’ve grown more confident.”
He acknowledged the duty that comes along with his success. “Becoming the champion has made me realize the importance of living up to that title. I want to perform in a way that matches my status.”
His All-Japan victory was significantly emotional for his father and coach, Masakazu, who shed tears as Kagiyama landed a difficult quad flip. In Torino, nevertheless, Kagiyama is coached by former Italian determine skating star Carolina Kostner, as his father stays residence recovering from a leg harm.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Carolina. She has helped me grow so much,” Kagiyama stated. “Even though my father couldn’t be here, I carry his teachings with me. I feel like I have two coaches taking care of me.”
GRACE UNDER PRESSURE
Known for his calm and composed demeanor, Kagiyama credit his psychological preparation and expertise for his poise. “In figure skating, experience and mental resilience are incredibly important,” he stated. “Whether I’ve felt regret or joy, I’ve learned to process those emotions and focus entirely on the present. The moment you’re in right now is always the most important.”
With his humility, class, and unshakable focus, Kagiyama stays a shining instance of grace underneath strain, balancing the steering of his coaches along with his personal unwavering willpower. .