Mikhail Shaidorov, a 21-year-old figure skater from Kazakhstan, stunned the world by becoming the first male figure skating Olympic champion from his country. His unexpected rise came after a series of misfortunes for other favorites, including American skater Ilja Malinin, who faltered during the free program. Shaidorov, who had previously faced significant challenges throughout the season, expressed disbelief in his victory, highlighting the struggles he overcame along the way. His achievement represents a significant milestone for Kazakhstan, a country that previously celebrated Deniss Ten's bronze medal in 2014 as its highest figure skating achievement.

In the aftermath of his monumental win, Shaidorov paid tribute to his fellow countryman Deniss Ten, acknowledging the impact of his predecessor in paving the way for Kazakhstani figure skating. During a post-competition press conference, he emphasized the importance of his victory for his nation, representing not only personal success but also a prideful moment for Kazakhstan on the global sporting stage. Shaidorov's triumph is indicative of the growing competitiveness of athletes from Kazakhstan and could encourage future generations in winter sports.

Amid the euphoria of his success, Shaidorov took a moment to address his views on Russia, stating, "This is disrespect to me." This comment adds a layer of complexity to his story, reflecting the broader geopolitical sentiments that can influence perceptions among athletes from former Soviet republics. Shaidorov’s win not only enriches his own narrative but also contributes to a larger conversation about national identity and international relations among competing nations, particularly those historically tied to Russia.