Ilia Malinin, often referred to as the “Quad God,” is on a relentless journey to figure skating greatness, pushing the boundaries of his craft as he prepares for the Winter Olympics in Milan. Recently observed practicing at the Great Park Ice & FivePoint Arena in Irvine, California, Malinin displayed both his impressive talent and the inherent challenges of the sport. Despite encountering setbacks—like falling on a quad axel during practice—Malinin’s tenacity and commitment to excellence remain unwavering.
The 21-year-old from Virginia has rapidly risen to prominence in men’s figure skating, maintaining an undefeated streak in competition for over two years. He has distinguished himself as the first skater to successfully land a quad axel in competition, a jump that entails 4 1/2 rotations and requires absolute precision and mastery. Malinin’s pursuit of challenging jumps prioritizes difficulty and artistry, an approach that has garnered him three of the highest free skating scores in history.
Coached by Rafael Arutyunyan and supported by his father, Roman Skorniakov, Malinin embodies the spirit of determination essential for the sport. “You learn more from losing than you do from winning,” he asserts, highlighting his growth mindset and understanding that setbacks are part of the pathway to success.
This season is pivotal, as Malinin aims to make his mark on the upcoming Winter Olympics, following a series of victories in national and international competitions over the past two years. His latest triumphs have included wins at the U.S. Championships and World Championships. The upcoming U.S. Championships in St. Louis will be instrumental in determining the American representatives at the Winter Olympics, and all eyes will be on Malinin to deliver.
Malinin’s background plays a significant role in his competitive spirit. Born to figure skating parents who initially hoped to steer him away from the sport, he gravitated toward skating naturally, demonstrating exceptional talent and a passion that could not be quelled. His artistic expression on ice resonates with audiences, making him a captivating performer who combines technical skill with a unique emotional depth.
As the Winter Olympics approach, Malinin’s dedication to perfecting his craft and desire to elevate the sport of figure skating are evident. He is not just aiming for Olympic gold; he aspires to redefine figure skating’s popularity and cultural significance. Malinin’s journey exemplifies resilience and passion, traits that inspire both spectators and future generations of athletes.
With the ice ahead of him and the world watching, Ilia Malinin is poised to become a significant figure in figure skating, a role model, and perhaps, a household name beyond the rink as he chases his Olympic dreams.