Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto Makes History at World Figure Skating Championships
Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto made history by winning her third consecutive figure skating world title in Montreal. She delivered a stellar performance in the free skate program, securing her place in the record books alongside American Peggy Fleming, who achieved a similar feat in 1968.
Key Highlights of Sakamoto’s Performance:
- Started in fourth place after the short program
- Dazzling free skate to “Wild is the Wind/Feeling Good” by Lauryn Hill
- Performed flawless double axel and triple Lutz
- Received thunderous applause for intricate combination jumps
Sakamoto expressed her emotions after the victory, stating, “I was able to keep focused and do my elements one after the other, and I am happy with this result.”
Other Notable Performances at the Championships:
- American Isabeau Levito won silver
- Chaeyeon Kim of South Korea secured the bronze
- Madison Chock and Evan Bates impressed in the ice dance routine
Chock and Bates, who won their first world championship last year, showcased a smooth twizzle sequence and a captivating performance to music by Queen, leaving the crowd in awe.
Reflecting on their journey, Bates shared, “Being here for an 11th world championship, healthy and still enjoying it all, it’s the greatest victory of all.”
With this historic win, Sakamoto cements her status as one of the leading figures in the world of figure skating, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike.
