Ami Nakai, a rising star in figure skating, has made headlines by taking the lead in the women's competition at the Winter Olympics held in Milan-Cortina. Amid cheers from the audience, which included her family holding handmade banners in support, Nakai successfully executed a triple axel jump, becoming only the fourth Japanese woman to achieve this feat at the Olympics, following legends like Midori Ito and Mao Asada. Her performance was not only technically impressive but filled with a joyful and comedic flair that resonated with the audience.

Nakai's journey has been intertwined with that of Kaori Sakamoto, who has been both a mentor and a supportive figure in her career. Sakamoto, who is retiring at the end of the season, encouraged Nakai during her senior Grand Prix debut last October, helping to ease her nerves with camaraderie and advice. Remarkably, Nakai bested Sakamoto in that competition and has continued to thrive under the guidance of her coach, Kensuke Nakai, expressing gratitude for Sakamoto's kindness throughout their journey.

On the eve of her Olympic competition, Sakamoto provided Nakai with a checklist of essentials and welcomed her with open arms, creating a sense of security for the young athlete. As Nakai embarks on her Olympic journey, she emphasizes that while she desires to win a medal, her primary goal is to enjoy the experience of competing on such a grand stage. This vibrant 17-year-old's enthusiasm and momentum are undeniably making waves in the figure skating world, setting the foundation for a promising future in the sport.