After the question about M. Drobiazko and P. Vanagas – S. Ambrulevičius' open answer without any hints
Lithuanian figure skaters S. Ambrulevičius and A. Reed achieved a personal record and the best Olympic result for Lithuania in 24 years during their recent performances.
Lithuanian figure skaters S. Ambrulevičius and A. Reed have made headlines by scoring 204.66 points in their recent performance, marking their personal best as well as a significant achievement for Lithuania in Olympic history. This score is notable as it represents the highest score for the country in Olympic figure skating in the past 24 years, reviving the nation's presence among the elite in the sport.
Their accomplishment is particularly juxtaposed with that of Margarita Drobiazko and Povilas Vanagas, who held the record for the best result in independent Lithuanian history, having been unjustly placed fifth at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics due to controversial judging decisions. This incident remains one of the most significant moments in Lithuanian Olympic history, and their legacy continues to inspire younger athletes like Ambrulevičius and Reed.
During the interviews following their performance, Ambrulevičius was asked whether he and Reed intended to fill the shoes of the legendary duo Drobiazko and Vanagas. At 33 years old, Ambrulevičius reflects on how the legacy of previous athletes has shaped the current generation, paving the way for the next milestones in Lithuanian figure skating, as they sought to not only honor their predecessors but also carve a path for future successes.