American teenager Ilia Malinin wins his first World Figure Skating title after a record-breaking performance, landing a quadruple axel and scoring the highest ever score in the competition. Despite physical and mental challenges leading up to the event, Malinin delivered a dazzling performance, securing a 24-point lead over the second-place finisher. His gold medal marks the US's second win at the World Championships.
Ilia Malinin and Jason Brown faced physical and mental challenges at the figure skating world championships. Malinin, known for his jumping ability, struggled with program components and physical issues, while Brown, who considered ending his competitive career, persevered with support from his coach and family. Despite their difficulties, both skaters aim to excel in the free skate to improve their standings at the championships.
Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva has been disqualified from the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and handed a four-year ban after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. As a result, the United States Figure Skating team will be awarded the gold medal for the team event. The decision has been welcomed by anti-doping bodies, and the International Olympic Committee will organize a medal ceremony for the US, Japan, and Canada in the future.
