Iliia Malinin, an emerging star in the world of figure skating, is establishing himself as a prominent figure in the sport, often referred to as the “Quad God” for his groundbreaking achievements. Currently, Malinin’s net worth is estimated at $1 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Born December 2, 2004, in Fairfax, Virginia, Malinin comes from a distinguished lineage of figure skaters. His mother, Tatiana Malinina, represented Uzbekistan in the 1998 Winter Olympics and secured the Grand Prix Final title, while his father, Roman Skorniakov, also competed at the Winter Games during the same years. His grandfather, Valery Malinin, was a Soviet athlete and coach, further emphasizing the family’s strong ties to the ice.
Despite this impressive lineage, Malinin did not initially take to skating, as he preferred soccer and other activities during his childhood. However, he eventually found his passion for the sport, and his impressive jumping ability soon set him apart. This pivotal moment transformed skating from a mere family tradition into a form of self-expression for Malinin.
Malinin’s rise to prominence began with a remarkable victory at the 2022 World Junior Championships, which followed an earlier disappointment when he was not selected for the U.S. Olympic team. He quickly transitioned to senior-level competition, clinching his first U.S. national title and becoming a regular podium finisher on the Grand Prix circuit. Notably, he made history by landing the quad axel during a competition, a jump previously regarded as unattainable in high-pressure situations.
His performances have become increasingly electrifying, featuring signature moves like the “raspberry twist”—a spin leap inspired by the translation of his Russian surname—and spectacular backflips that, while not scoring elements, have significantly captivated audiences. Moreover, under the mentorship of Hall of Fame coach Rafael Arutyunyan, Malinin has refined both his competitive strategy and artistic expression, assisted by choreographer Shae-Lynn Bourne’s expertise in musicality.
As he prepares for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics, Malinin has emerged as the event’s most commercially viable figure skater, earning around $700,000 in the year leading up to the Games. His income is largely attributed to sponsorship agreements with prominent brands like Coca-Cola and Xfinity, showcasing his marketability while ensuring the longevity of his financial success.
Malinin’s influence in the figure skating landscape, alongside comparisons to successful athletes like Chloe Kim and Lindsey Vonn, highlights not only his potential for athletic success but also his ability to elevate the sport’s profile. With his unique style and competitive achievements, Ilya Malinin is positioned to inspire a new generation of figure skaters, while his story serves as a reminder of the power of passion and dedication in overcoming initial setbacks.