Niina Petrõkina made headlines as the first Estonian figure skater to perform at the Olympic gala event, showcasing her talent alongside Olympic and world-level performers. Her tango performance, set to the music of 'Cell Block Tango' from the movie 'Chicago,' drew significant praise and attention at the event held in Milan. American onlookers described her performance as the highlight of the gala, emphasizing the enjoyment it brought to them.

At just 21 years old and the reigning European champion, Petrõkina's performance was both innovative and engaging, featuring a storyline that involved male skaters portraying her victims on stage. This dramatic interpretation not only showcased her skills as a skater but also highlighted her ability to act, effectively blending the elements of performance art with athleticism. The integration of a compelling narrative and artistic expression in her routine has garnered admiration and underscored her potential in the sport.

Petrõkina's participation is not only significant for her personal career but also represents a notable achievement for Estonia in the world of figure skating, as her 7th place finish in the women's singles competition at the Olympics quickly became a point of national pride. Her multifaceted presentation has set a new standard for artistic expression in ice skating, further enriching the sport's narrative and inspiring future athletes to explore similar creative avenues in their routines.