Feb 17 • 22:20 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Ami Nakai, making her debut, ranks first in the SP and is the fourth Japanese woman to successfully land a triple axel

Ami Nakai achieved a historic feat by becoming the fourth female Japanese figure skater to land a triple axel in the Olympics during her debut performance and ranked first in the short program.

Ami Nakai, at her Olympic debut at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, made headlines by successfully completing a triple axel, becoming the fourth female Japanese figure skater to do so on this grand stage. Inspired by her idol, Mao Asada, Nakai began training in hopes of following in her footsteps, and her successful jump marked a significant milestone in her career. This moment was not only a personal achievement but also an inspiring moment for young fans, where she expressed her hope that others would look up to her as she had done with Asada.

Despite being just 150 cm tall, Nakai has demonstrated remarkable speed and technique, allowing her to execute her jumps effectively. During her performance, she not only nailed the triple axel but also connected multiple elements, showcasing her talents to the judges and audience alike. Her routine was met with enthusiasm as she ended with a powerful gesture, celebrating her performance and exceeding her personal best score from previous competitions.

Nakai emphasized that her focus during the Olympics is not solely on results but on enjoying the experience. Her score of 78.71 points surpassed her previous best, reflecting her growth and ability to thrive under pressure. This debut performance cements Nakai's position as a rising star in Japanese figure skating, reminiscent of the legacies left by earlier trailblazers and setting the stage for her future in the sport.

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