Figure Skater Ilia Malinin Lands Historic Quadruple Axel At Skate America
18-year-old American becomes first skater to complete four-and-a-half rotations in competition
Malinin's victory at Skate America marks a milestone in the sport of figure skating
American figure skater Ilia Malinin has made history by becoming the first skater to successfully land a quadruple axel in competition. The 18-year-old accomplished the feat at the Skate America Grand Prix event in Norwood, Massachusetts, on Saturday, October 22, 2022.
The quadruple axel is one of the most difficult jumps in figure skating, requiring skaters to complete four-and-a-half rotations in the air. Malinin's successful landing of the jump marks a significant milestone in the sport, as no skater had previously been able to complete the jump in competition.
Malinin's victory at Skate America was a dominant one, as he won the event with a total score of 280.39 points. He finished ahead of Japan's Shoma Uno (270.39 points) and Canada's Keegan Messing (243.30 points).
Malinin's historic performance has earned him widespread praise from the figure skating community. Many experts believe that his successful landing of the quadruple axel could revolutionize the sport and inspire other skaters to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Malinin's victory at Skate America is the latest in a string of impressive performances by the young skater. He won the bronze medal at the 2022 World Figure Skating Championships and the silver medal at the 2022 Four Continents Figure Skating Championships.
Malinin is considered one of the most promising young skaters in the world, and his successful landing of the quadruple axel is a sign that he is capable of great things. He is expected to be a contender for a medal at the 2023 World Figure Skating Championships and the 2026 Winter Olympics.