Figure skater Kaori Sakamoto showcased impressive form in the team event at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, aiming to add gold to her medal collection before retiring. The 25-year-old from Kobe delivered an emotional performance that propelled Japan ahead of the United States temporarily, though the Americans ultimately claimed victory.
Kaori Sakamoto demonstrated her exceptional skill in the figure skating team competition at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, surpassing her competitors with a standout performance. During the free skate on Sunday, the 25-year-old from Kobe skated to Edith Piaf's 'Non, je ne regrette rien,' delivering an emotional routine that briefly put Japan in the lead over the United States. Ultimately, Ilia Malinin's efforts helped secure the gold medal for the Americans.
Sakamoto, who plans to retire after these Games, has already collected multiple Olympic medals in her career and is now pursuing gold in the individual event. Her team event showing highlights her peak form as she approaches what she describes as a regret-free finale. While Japan performed strongly, the overall team result favored the U.S. This competition marks a pivotal moment in Sakamoto's journey, drawing significant attention as the culmination of her professional tenure.
