The World Figure Skating Championships kicked off on March 26, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts, attracting attention as a key event leading up to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The competition is crucial for determining Olympic qualification spots, with Japan aiming to secure three spots in both the men's and women's singles events.
On the eve of the championships, Japanese athletes participated in official practice sessions, showcasing their skills and preparations. Sakamoto Kaori, who is vying for her fourth consecutive world title, expressed her optimism ahead of the competition. "A week ago, I felt like I was in great shape. There’s some tension, but I’m also excited," she said, as she landed three jumps cleanly during her practice, setting a positive tone for her upcoming performance in the short program.
Scheduled for March 27, 2025, at 1:05 AM Japan time, the women’s short program will feature Sakamoto alongside fellow competitors Tsuboguchi Itsuka and Chiba Mone. Sakamoto, a bronze medalist at the Beijing 2022 Olympics, aims to achieve a remarkable feat, potentially becoming the first since Carol Heiss to win four consecutive world titles. "This championship is crucial not just for me but for my teammates as well, who are also looking to secure Olympic spots," she added.
Chiba, at just 19 years old and making her senior debut, is looking to improve upon her seventh-place finish from last year’s championships. "I want to show my true potential and aim for a personal best," she remarked, reflecting on her journey since transitioning to senior competition.
Meanwhile, Tsuboguchi is returning to the World Championships after a four-year absence, having previously earned a silver medal in 2018. "It’s been a rollercoaster, but I’m excited to be back and aiming for a podium finish this time," she stated, highlighting her determination to perform well.
In the men’s singles, Keyama Yuma, who has previously placed second three times at this event, is also gearing up for his short program. He expressed confidence in his training, saying, "I’ve been able to practice calmly and aim for a great performance. I want to elevate my game this time around." His goal is to clinch his first title at the World Championships.
The pairs competition also features the duo of Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara, known as “Rikuryu,” who are targeting their first world title in two years. Kihara shared his confidence, stating, "We’ve built up our skills since last year, and I feel great about our chances this time." The pair has been training diligently, having entered the venue by March 24 after continuing their preparations in Toronto, Canada, following the Four Continents Championships.
Competing alongside them will be the debut pair of Yuna Sumi and Moriguchi Sumitada, also from the Kinoshita Academy. They are aiming to finish within the top 16 in their first World Championships. Their training has been focused on adapting to the NHL-sized rink, which is slightly different from the standard competition size. Both pairs have shown confidence in adjusting their techniques to suit the venue.
The championships are being held at TD Garden, an NHL facility, which has drawn both excitement and some challenges for the skaters. Miura and Kihara indicated that they had to make slight adjustments to their skating paths in the larger rink, but they feel prepared. They are looking to capitalize on their experience and secure a strong showing.
As the competition unfolds, the buzz around the championships has also been heightened by the presence of former star skater Shoma Uno, who retired from competitive skating after the last season. He was spotted at the venue, much to the delight of fans who expressed nostalgia and eagerness for a possible return. Uno, now engaged in media work, was seen in a suit and tie, giving a thumbs-up as he enjoyed the atmosphere of the event. His popularity remains strong, with fans commenting on his youthful appearance and expressing their longing to see him back on the ice.
The championships not only serve as a platform for athletes to showcase their skills but also play a crucial role in determining the number of Olympic spots available for their respective countries. For Japan, securing three spots means that the combined placement of the top two skaters must be 13 or less. This adds an extra layer of pressure and motivation for the competitors.
As the event progresses, all eyes will be on the performances of Sakamoto, Chiba, and Tsuboguchi in the women’s singles, as well as Keyama in the men’s singles and the pairs teams. Each athlete is not only competing for personal glory but also for their country’s representation at the upcoming Olympics.
The World Figure Skating Championships are set to be broadcasted across various platforms, including Fuji TV and BS Fuji, ensuring that fans can catch all the action live. The excitement is palpable as the skaters prepare to take to the ice, each hoping to leave their mark in this prestigious competition.
