US skating star Ilia Malinin leads after near-perfect short program at the Olympics

American figure skater Ilia Malinin made a resounding statement at the Milan Cortina Olympics with a sensational performance in the short program. Dubbed the “Quad God,” Malinin showcased his exceptional skills with high-flying jumps and even included a jaw-dropping backflip in his routine. The two-time world champion earned a remarkable score of 108.16 points for his performance, leaving his closest competitor, Yuma Kagiyama of Japan, trailing behind with 103.07 points.

Malinin’s program, set to the music of the popular video game “Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown,” was a display of technical prowess and artistry. His flawless execution of jumps like the quad flip, triple axel, and quad lutz-triple toe loop combination earned him high marks from the judges and the admiration of the crowd at the Milan Ice Skating Arena.

Despite facing some doubts after being beaten by Kagiyama in the team competition, Malinin proved his mettle in the short program and reclaimed his status as the favorite for Olympic gold. His closest rival, Kagiyama, delivered a strong performance as well but a misstep on his final jump cost him valuable points in the grade of execution.

The men’s figure skating event at the Olympics also featured poignant moments, such as U.S. skater Maxim Naumov’s emotional performance in honor of his late parents. Naumov, who lost his parents in a tragic plane crash, fulfilled their dream by competing on Olympic ice and delivered a heartfelt performance that touched the audience.

As the competition moves into the decisive free skate, all eyes will be on Malinin and Kagiyama as they battle for the podium. With Malinin holding a significant lead after the short program, the stage is set for an intense showdown between the two talented skaters.

The opening night of men’s figure skating at the Milan Cortina Olympics was a showcase of skill, emotion, and resilience. From Malinin’s stellar performance to Naumov’s touching tribute to his parents, the event captured the essence of the sport and the spirit of the Olympic Games.

For more updates on the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, visit the AP Olympics hub: https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics.