Kaori Sakamoto Leads Japan’s Charge at Milano Cortina 2026
MILAN, 08 February 2026 — As the figure skating team event reaches its climax at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto has once again proven why she is the bedrock of her nation’s skating ambitions. The three-time World Champion delivered a masterclass in consistency and power over the last 48 hours, keeping Japan within striking distance of the gold medal in a fierce battle against the United States.
Dominance in the Olympic Team Event
Sakamoto, who entered these Games as the reigning three-time World Champion (2022, 2023, 2024), has been the standout performer in the women’s discipline during the opening days of competition in Milan. On Friday, 6 February, Sakamoto topped the short program segment, earning a vital 10 points for Team Japan with a score of 78.88. She edged out her long-time rival, Alysa Liu of the United States, who finished second with 74.90.
In the free skate segment held earlier today, Sakamoto continued her momentum. She posted a segment score of 148.62, featuring her trademark high-velocity double axel and powerful triple-triple combinations. While the United States currently holds a narrow lead in the overall team standings, Sakamoto’s performance has ensured that Japan remains the primary challenger for the top spot on the podium.
A Career of Unprecedented Consistency
Sakamoto’s journey to the 2026 Winter Olympics has been defined by a “perfect” 2023-24 season and a reputation for being the most reliable skater in the world. Since winning the bronze medal at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, she has dominated the international circuit, becoming the first woman since Peggy Fleming to win three consecutive world titles.
Personal Bests and Technical Milestones
While Sakamoto’s scores in Milan have been world-class, her career-high marks remain the benchmarks for the current era of women’s skating. Her technical precision, particularly her “Top Element” triple flip-triple toe loop combination, has consistently earned high Grades of Execution (GOE) from international judges.
| Category | Score | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Program (SP) | 80.32 | ISU World Championships | 23 March 2022 |
| Free Skate (FS) | 155.77 | ISU World Championships | 25 March 2022 |
| Total Score | 236.09 | ISU World Championships | 25 March 2022 |
The Final Olympic Chapter?
At 25 years old, Sakamoto has hinted that the Milano Cortina 2026 Games may be her final Olympic appearance. Having already secured two Olympic medals in 2022 (Bronze in the individual event and Silver in the team event), she is aiming to upgrade her collection to gold. Her leadership within the Japanese squad—alongside pairs champions Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara—has been instrumental in Japan’s rise as a collective powerhouse.
Key Achievements
- Three-time ISU World Champion: 2022, 2023, 2024.
- Olympic Medallist: 2022 Bronze (Individual), 2022 Silver (Team).
- ISU Skating Awards: Nominated for “Most Valuable Skater” in 2024.
- Grand Prix Final Champion: 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kaori Sakamoto’s highest score?
Sakamoto’s personal best total score is 236.09 points, achieved during her first World Championship victory in Montpellier in March 2022.
How did Sakamoto perform in the 2026 Olympic Team Event?
Sakamoto won the Women’s Short Program with 78.88 points and placed first in the Women’s Free Skate segment with 148.62 points, securing maximum points for Team Japan.
Is Kaori Sakamoto still the World Champion?
As of the current 2025-26 season, Sakamoto remains one of the most decorated active skaters, having held the World title for three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024.
Who are Sakamoto’s main rivals in Milan?
Her primary competition in the 2026 Games includes Alysa Liu and Amber Glenn of the United States, as well as European contenders like Anastasiia Gubanova.