In a thrilling conclusion to the World Figure Skating Championships held in Boston on March 28, 2025, Hyakune Tiba made history by winning the bronze medal, marking her first podium finish at this prestigious event. The 19-year-old from Sendai showcased her talent and determination, finishing the competition with a total score of 215.24 points, a remarkable achievement after placing second in the short program.
Despite a strong performance, Tiba's fellow countrywoman, Kaori Sakamoto, fell short of her quest for a fourth consecutive title, securing the silver medal with a score of 217.98 points. Sakamoto, who had previously dominated the sport, faced fierce competition from American skater Alisa Liu, who clinched the gold medal with an impressive total of 222.97 points.
The competition was not just about individual accolades; it also held significant implications for the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. The Japanese women's team secured the maximum of three spots for the Games, thanks to the combined scores of Sakamoto and Tiba, which met the stringent criteria set by the International Skating Union (ISU).
"I never imagined I would stand on the podium like this," Tiba expressed joyfully after her performance. Reflecting on her journey, she recalled her previous experience at the World Championships, where she finished in seventh place. "I vowed never to feel that disappointment again, and I am thrilled to have achieved this milestone today," she added.
Tiba's performance was a testament to her growth as a skater. In the short program, she executed a series of jumps that showcased her technical prowess, earning her a score of 73.44 points, placing her second in that segment. However, she acknowledged areas for improvement, specifically noting the two jumps where she was penalized for insufficient rotation. "The feeling of disappointment is stronger than the joy of winning; I have my sights set on even greater heights," she said, demonstrating her commitment to continuous improvement.
As the competition progressed, Sakamoto, who entered the free skate segment in fifth place after the short program, delivered a commendable performance that included a series of difficult jumps and spins. Her final score of 146.95 points in the free skate showcased her resilience and skill, although it was not enough to reclaim her title. "I gave my all out there, but I have to accept that this was not my time to shine," Sakamoto remarked post-competition.
Japan's success at the World Championships was not limited to Tiba and Sakamoto. Shinhara Higuchi, who finished sixth with a total score of 204.58 points, also contributed to securing the Olympic spots. The combined placements of Sakamoto and Tiba ensured that Japan met the requirement of having their top two skaters' total placements within 13, a crucial benchmark for Olympic qualification.
In the men’s event, Alisa Liu's victory was a highlight, as she became the first American woman to win the World Championships since 2019. Liu's performance was characterized by her elegant artistry and technical precision, earning her high scores across the board. Her success adds to the competitive landscape of women's figure skating, particularly as the sport prepares for the Olympic stage.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics promise to be a thrilling event for figure skating fans worldwide. With Japan's strong representation and the emergence of new talents like Tiba and Liu, the competition is set to be fierce. As athletes prepare for the biggest stage in winter sports, the stakes have never been higher.
In conclusion, the World Figure Skating Championships in Boston not only showcased incredible athleticism and artistry but also set the stage for the upcoming Olympics. With Hyakune Tiba's bronze medal and Kaori Sakamoto's silver, Japan's figure skating team is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage in Milan-Cortina.
