Two-time world champion Ilia Malinin won the Skate Canada Grand Prix men's title with a dazzling free skate in Saskatoon on Sunday, capturing his 12th straight international title as he gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. The 20-year-old American's performance secured his spot in the Grand Prix Final in Nagoya, Japan, later this month, where he aims for a third straight title.
Malinin's free skate score of 228.97 points set a world record, surpassing the 227.79 he scored at the 2024 World Championships. His personal-best total of 333.81 gave him a staggering 76.6-point victory over runner-up Aleksandr Selevko of Estonia, who totaled 257.21 and strengthened his bid for Estonia's sole men's spot at the February Milan-Cortina Games.
Malinin, who also won the French Grand Prix earlier this season, has now secured his place in the Grand Prix Final in Nagoya, Japan, later this month, targeting a third consecutive title. Japan's Kao Miura claimed bronze, overtaking compatriot Kazuki Tomono, who had been second after the short program. Miura finished third in the free skate for a total of 253.69 points, while Tomono, fifth in the free skate, placed fourth with 251.46.
The event highlighted Malinin's dominance as he builds momentum for the Olympics, with the competition serving as a key step in the season.