Ilia Malinin’s Cathartic Skate at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics
Despite a challenging performance in the men’s figure skating competition at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, Ilia Malinin delivered a powerful and emotionally resonant skate in the exhibition gala on February 21, addressing the pressures he faced throughout the season.
From “Quad God” to Vulnerability
Malinin entered the Olympics as a heavy favorite, aiming to build history with a seven-quadruple jump program. However, a fall on his signature quad axel during the free program led to an eighth-place overall finish. The skater, often referred to as the “Quad God,” struggled under the weight of expectations, experiencing a loss of confidence and a nearly two-year competitive losing streak.
“Fear” as a Form of Expression
In the exhibition gala, Malinin chose to express his internal struggles through his performance, set to the song “Fear” by rapper NF. He had previewed the routine on social media, hinting at the “inevitable crash” that comes with intense pressure. The performance visually depicted the overwhelming nature of social media scrutiny and public expectation.
Dressed in a grey hoodie with “Fear” stamped across it, Malinin mimicked scrolling through a barrage of social media notifications, shielding his face from imaginary flashbulbs and physically representing the feeling of being overwhelmed by external noise.
A Message of Humanity
Malinin explained that the program was intended to show the audience that even elite athletes are human beings with real emotions and vulnerabilities. He wanted to convey the pressure and doubt he experienced, challenging the perception of athletes as “robots” with “superhuman abilities.”
Mental Health Takes Center Stage
Malinin’s openness resonated with a broader conversation surrounding mental health within the U.S. Olympic team, particularly in figure skating. Gymnast Simone Biles has previously spoken about the importance of recognizing athletes as individuals with emotional needs.
A Shift in Team Dynamics
The 2026 U.S. Women’s figure skating team – Alyssa Liu, Amber Glenn, and Isabeau Levito – exemplified a latest era of camaraderie and support. Their close bond challenged the traditionally competitive and isolating nature of the sport, prioritizing emotional well-being over rivalry. Glenn’s supportive gesture towards Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto after a tough free skate further highlighted this shift in values.
Looking Ahead
Malinin expressed a commitment to learning from his Olympic experience and continuing to grow as an athlete and a person. He emphasized that success extends beyond medals, encompassing personal growth and the positive impact one can have on the world.