Seventeen-Year-Old Japanese Skater Takes Olympic Lead with Career-Best Performance
Milan, 19 February 2026
Ami Nakai delivered a stunning triple axel to score 78.71 points, leading the women’s figure skating short programme at Milan-Cortina 2026. The teenager’s breakthrough performance puts Japan in commanding position with three skaters in the top four places, whilst established American competitors struggled significantly. Nakai outperformed three-time world champion Kaori Sakamoto and world champion Alysa Liu in her debut senior season.
Japan’s Complete Domination on Ice
The teenage sensation’s performance on 17 February 2026 was part of a remarkable Japanese sweep that saw their skaters occupy three of the top four positions following the short programme [1]. Nakai’s career-best score of 78.71 points placed her ahead of compatriot Kaori Sakamoto, who scored 77.23 points despite being a three-time world champion and reigning Winter Games bronze medallist [2][3]. The depth of Japanese talent was further demonstrated by Mone Chiba securing fourth place with 74.00 points [3], sandwiching American skater Alysa Liu who managed third place with 76.59 points [1][2][3].
Technical Excellence Meets Emotional Breakthrough
Nakai’s routine showcased remarkable technical prowess, featuring a triple axel, a triple loop-triple toe loop combination, and a finishing triple loop [2]. The 17-year-old, inspired by legendary skater Mao Asada, delivered her performance with such precision that her technical score gave her a decisive lead over the more experienced Sakamoto [2]. Despite her commanding position, Nakai remained humble about her achievement, stating: “There’s no way I stand a chance against Kaori. Right now I’m just enjoying these Olympics” [2]. Her emotional response to the performance was equally touching: “I feel like I’m dreaming… I just tried to stay in my skate, and have a good time for the rest of the skate” [3].
American Struggles Contrast Japanese Success
Whilst Japan celebrated, the American team faced significant challenges in their quest to end a two-decade medal drought [3]. Alysa Liu, despite achieving her season-best score, remained philosophical about the competition, explaining: “Whether I beat them or not is not my goal…My goal is just to do my programs and share my story and I don’t need to be over or under anyone to do that” [2][3]. The American struggles were more pronounced further down the field, with 18-year-old Isabeau Levito finishing eighth with 70.84 points after being docked a level on her step sequence [3]. Veteran skater Amber Glenn’s hopes were dashed when a popped triple loop cost her seven points, leaving her in 13th place with 67.39 points [3]. Glenn’s disappointment was evident: “I don’t know what happened… I had it” [3].
Setting the Stage for Thursday’s Medal Decision
As the competition moves towards the free skating programme on Thursday, 19 February 2026, Nakai’s position as the leader adds an intriguing dynamic to the medal race [1][3]. Sakamoto, with her experience and technical consistency, acknowledged her performance saying: “I made small, tiny mistakes, but I did it well… In the first half, I was a little bit anxious, but as the music went on I got very comfortable and was able to really enjoy my performance” [3]. Adding further intrigue to the competition is 18-year-old Adeliia Petrosian, competing as an Individual Neutral Athlete, who finished fifth with a personal-best score of 72.89 points [1][3]. Petrosian, making her global stage debut after being cleared by the International Olympic Committee, performed to a Michael Jackson medley and remained coy about her free skate plans, stating: “I would like to keep this a secret because I never tell about my program” [3]. The stage is set for what promises to be a captivating conclusion to the women’s figure skating competition, with Japan’s teenage prodigy leading the charge towards Olympic glory.