17-year-old Ami Nakai landed a triple axel to take the lead in the women's singles short program, with Japanese skaters claiming three of the top four spots at the figure skating competition.
Nakai's clean execution of the challenging triple axel—one of the most difficult jumps in women's figure skating—propelled her to first place in the short program. The teenage sensation demonstrated both technical prowess and composure under pressure, setting herself up strongly for the free skate.
Kaori Sakamoto, one of Japan's most experienced competitors on the international stage, finished in second place with a solid performance. Her consistency and artistic presentation kept her well-positioned in the medal hunt as the competition moves forward.
Strong Japanese Contingent in Top Positions
Completing the impressive Japanese showing, Momone Chiba secured fourth place in the short program. The depth of talent from Japan was on full display, with three athletes demonstrating the country's strength in women's figure skating heading into the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympics.
The triple axel remains a defining element in women's figure skating, requiring three-and-a-half rotations in the air. Successfully landing this jump in competition gives skaters a significant technical advantage and can be the difference between podium positions.
Figure SkatingAlysa Liu Captivates at Milano Cortina 2026 Free SkateLooking Ahead to the Free Skate
With the short program complete, attention now turns to the free skate where medals will be decided. Nakai will look to maintain her lead, while Sakamoto has the experience to mount a challenge from second place. The competition format means that strong free skate performances can dramatically reshape the final standings.
The event serves as an important benchmark as athletes prepare for the upcoming Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, where Japan will be looking to build on its strong tradition in figure skating.
