Surya Bonaly, the pioneering French figure skater known for her iconic backflip, has made headlines once again as the move she controversially executed in the 1998 Winter Olympics has finally been performed legally at the upcoming 2026 Winter Games in Milan. Over the weekend, American skater Ilia Malinin, dubbed the “Quad God,” successfully landed the backflip during competition, igniting a wave of support for Bonaly online.
In 1998, Bonaly made history by landing the backflip on one blade, despite it being banned since the 1970s due to safety concerns. At the time, U.S. figure skater Terry Kubicka had executed the move, landing on two blades during the 1976 Winter Olympics and leading officials to prohibit it. Bonaly’s attempt was seen as bold defiance against the restrictions of her sport, although she faced penalties that ultimately placed her 10th in the competition.
Reflecting on her groundbreaking moment, Bonaly, now 52, expressed her desires to showcase her skills and connect with the audience. She recalled, “I just wanted to show the judges, who don’t appreciate what I do, just what I can do. I just wanted to do something the crowd would like.” Despite the setback of point deductions that day, Bonaly’s legendary act opened the door for future generations of skaters.
In a recent interview, she remarked on the evolution of the sport, saying, “I broke the ice for other skaters. Now everything is different. People welcome anyone as long as they are good, and that is what life is about.”
Celebrities and fans alike have rallied around her legacy, with actor Wendell Pierce calling for acknowledgment of Bonaly’s contribution, insisting, “Surya Bonaly originated the backflip in the Winter Olympics and was penalized for it. She should have won the gold medal.” His comments highlight the ongoing discourse regarding the recognition and respect owed to innovators in the sport.
With the backflip now celebrated and executed legally, Bonaly’s story serves as an inspiring narrative about breaking barriers and embracing change within competitive figure skating.