Mao Asada, a name synonymous with grace and determination in the world of figure skating, reflects on her remarkable journey, characterized by both triumphs and tribulations. Known for her artistry on ice and her indomitable spirit, Asada has not only captured the hearts of fans but has also left an indelible mark on the sport. In a recent interview, Asada shared her thoughts on the challenges she faced throughout her career, stating, "There were times when I felt like giving up." This candid admission highlights the emotional rollercoaster that is a professional athlete's life.
One of the pivotal moments in Asada's career came during the All-Japan Championships when she was just 21 years old. Having qualified for the GP Final after a three-year hiatus, Asada received devastating news about her mother's sudden illness, prompting her to return home immediately. "My mother had been battling illness for a long time, but about a year before her passing, she said to me, 'I hate that my illness is preventing you and Mai from doing what you want to do.'" Despite the heart-wrenching circumstances, Asada resolved to compete in the All-Japan Championships, which were scheduled just two weeks after her return.
Asada resumed training just three days after her mother's death, a testament to her resilience and commitment to the sport. "At that time, I couldn't even process the reality of my mother's passing. I had no room to think; I just focused on doing what I had to do," she recalled. Defying expectations, Asada emerged victorious at the All-Japan Championships, claiming her fifth national title. In a poignant tribute, she performed to "Liebestraum," dedicating her free skate to her late mother. "Skating helped me remain mentally strong during that time. When I was on the ice, I could forget everything else," she reflected.
Asada's journey in figure skating began at a young age, where her sister, Mai, served as both a companion and a rival. "As a child, I always wanted to beat my sister. We practiced every day with that goal in mind," she shared. Their competitive spirit was evident from the start, as they often competed in the same categories. In their first competition, Asada finished sixth while Mai placed fourth, igniting a fierce desire in Mao to hone her skills and develop her unique strengths.
As Asada's career progressed, her rivalry shifted from her sister to South Korean skater Kim Yuna. "When I first competed against Yuna, I knew I would be facing her for years to come," Asada said. Their rivalry reached its peak during the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, where Asada successfully landed three triple axels and secured a silver medal. However, the pressure of competition took its toll on her psyche. "With each competition, fear crept in, and the joy of skating turned into a necessity to win," she admitted.
Reflecting on the Sochi Olympics in 2014, Asada described it as the "most challenging competition" of her life. After finishing 16th in the short program, she fought back in the free skate, delivering a performance that showcased her resilience. "It was the hardest competition of my life. The fear from the short program lingered, but with the support of my coach, Nobuo Sato, and a phone call from my sister, I ultimately learned to trust myself," she said. That performance, she noted, was not just about her individual strength; it was a culmination of her entire skating journey.
After retiring from competitive skating following the December 2016 All-Japan Championships, Asada embarked on a new chapter as a chairperson, producing three ice shows. In the fall of 2024, she opened "MAO RINK TACHIKAWA TACHIHI" in Tachikawa City, Tokyo. "This is part of my life's mission. I hope that one day, a skater who trains at 'MAO RINK' will grow up to win an Olympic gold medal. That would be the ultimate conclusion to my skating journey," Asada expressed.
Asada's passion for skating remains unwavering. She aims to instill the joy of skating in the next generation of athletes. "I might be a strict coach, but I want the children to always remember the fun of skating," she said. Her journey has been filled with ups and downs, but through it all, Asada has transformed her setbacks into motivation, driven by her love for the sport.
As Asada continues to inspire young skaters, her legacy as a champion and a mentor is solidified. The journey of Mao Asada is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of family, and the enduring love for figure skating. With her eyes set on the future, Asada is not only shaping her own story but also guiding the next generation of skaters to achieve their dreams.
