The Lausanne International Ballet Competition, a well-known platform for young ballet dancers, held its final round on the 7th in Lausanne, Switzerland. During this prestigious event, Yusei Sai, a 15-year-old ballet dancer residing in the United States, achieved an impressive 5th place. The competition was ultimately won by an 18-year-old male dancer from the United States. Yusei is affiliated with an academy in California and had previously showcased his talent at the Youth America Grand Prix, where he was awarded 2nd place in the junior category last April.

Out of 444 applicants from 43 countries worldwide, 21 contestants made it to the final round. Among the finalists was Risa Ito from Nagoya, Japan, who at 17 years old did not secure a place among the winners. The intense competition highlights the global scale and the level of talent participating, reaffirming the significance of the Lausanne International Ballet Competition as a launchpad for aspiring ballet dancers.

The competition's outcomes may influence future opportunities for the participants, potentially leading to engagements with prestigious ballet companies and schools. With increasing global participation and recognition of young talent, events like these serve to elevate the profiles of up-and-coming dancers, particularly those from underrepresented regions, and ensure sustained interest in classical ballet.