In a recent analysis following the short program of the Olympic Games, Latvian figure skating coach Alma Lepina-Lace reviewed the performance of Denis Vasiljevs, who finished in 17th place in his third Olympic appearance. She highlighted Vasiljevs' impressive skating, calling it his best start of the season and noting that he executed nearly everything to the best of his abilities. Additionally, she shared insights from the competition, including the performance of fellow competitor Fedirs Kuļišs, who faced challenges during his routine, ultimately finishing in 28th place among 29 skaters.

Coach Lepina-Lace acknowledged Vasiljevs' need for improvement, specifically stating he must incorporate stronger technical elements in his skating to achieve higher scores. She remarked on the emotional aftermath of the competition, noting that Vasiljevs expressed disappointment regarding his scores, believing he had performed better than reflected in the judging. However, she maintained that the scores were fair and attributable to the continuing evolution and technical advancements in figure skating. This reflects the pressure athletes face at a higher level, intensifying the stakes and scrutiny involved in their performances.

Overall, Lepina-Lace's comments underline the competitive nature of figure skating and the importance of both artistry and technical proficiency. As the sport evolves, athletes like Vasiljevs must adapt to new standards of performance to remain competitive. This story is significant in the context of Latvia's representation in winter sports and highlights the dedication of both coaches and athletes striving for excellence on the Olympic stage.