Ice skating

Yuma Kagiyama from Japan surpassed Ilia Malinin of the U.S. in the free skating segment, yet secured second place overall behind the “Quad God” at the figure skating Grand Prix Final this Saturday.

Ilia Malinin of the United States showcases his skills in the men’s free program at the Grand Prix Final figure skating event in Grenoble, France, on Dec. 7, 2024. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo

Malinin claimed his second straight Grand Prix Final championship with a total of 292.12 points, finishing 10.34 points ahead of Kagiyama. His fellow Japanese skater Shun Sato advanced to earn the bronze medal with a score of 270.82 in Grenoble, France.

In the free skate, Kagiyama achieved a score of 188.29, outshining Malinin’s 186.69.

“I aimed to push my technical capabilities while also trying to weave in the artistry I’ve been developing over the last few seasons,” the 20-year-old Malinin stated on the International Skating Union’s official platform.

“While it wasn’t exactly what I hoped for, I’m still proud of my performance. I strive to innovate, even if initially it may come off as odd and uncertain. The toughest part is ensuring everything remains consistent and polished while merging the technical elements with artistry.”

Yuma Kagiyama of Japan performs in the men’s free program at the Grand Prix Final figure skating competition in Grenoble, France, on Dec. 7, 2024. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo

Ilia Malinin (C) of the USA poses with his gold medal in the men’s event at the Grand Prix Final figure skating competition in Grenoble, France, on Dec. 7, 2024, with silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama (L) and bronze medalist Shun Sato, both from Japan. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo

Earlier on Saturday, Amber Glenn from the United States captured the women’s title in her inaugural Grand Prix Final, successfully resisting challenges from Mone Chiba and defending world champion Kaori Sakamoto.

Glenn achieved a score of 142.03, bringing her total to 212.07 in the competitive lineup of six skaters, five of whom were Japanese. The 25-year-old from Plano, Texas, took the top spot in both the short and free segments.

Amber Glenn of the United States executes her free skate at the Grand Prix Final figure skating competition in Grenoble, France, on Dec. 7, 2024. (Kyodo)

Chiba secured the silver with a score of 208.85, while Sakamoto climbed one spot to capture bronze with 201.13.

“I’m definitely pleased but aimed to achieve second place with a more impressive performance,” Chiba expressed. “I must set my sights higher.”

Amber Glenn (C) of the United States captures a photo after winning gold in the women’s event at the Grand Prix Final figure skating competition in Grenoble, France, on Dec. 7, 2024, alongside silver medalist Mone Chiba (L) and bronze medalist Kaori Sakamoto, both from Japan. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo

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