Maxim Naumov, a U.S. figure skater, made an emotional return to the ice during the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, nearly a year after suffering a profound personal tragedy. His short program performance at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis on Thursday night showcased not only his athletic skill but also his resilience and the deep connection he maintains with his late parents.
Tragic Loss and Determination
Naumov’s journey has been marked by the heart-wrenching loss of his parents, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who died in a tragic plane crash on January 29, 2025. The crash involved an American Airlines flight that collided with a Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. In addition to Naumov’s parents, 65 others, including fellow figure skaters Spencer Lane and Jinna Han, lost their lives in the incident.
Almost 344 days after this tragedy, Naumov delivered a performance that was both a tribute to his parents and a testament to his relentless drive. His emotional resilience shone through as he skated to the haunting notes of Chopin’s “Nocturne No. 20,” a piece that encapsulated his struggles and triumphs.
Competition Highlights
Following his emotional performance, Naumov scored 85.72 points, placing him fourth at the competition. Despite not achieving his personal best, he successfully executed a triple axel and a triple Lutz-triple toe loop combination, proving his capability under pressure. His performance captivated the audience, earning him a standing ovation.
- Event: 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships
- Date: Thursday night
- Location: Enterprise Center, St. Louis
- Score: 85.72 points
- Current Standing: Fourth place
Looking Toward the Olympics
With selections for the U.S. men’s singles team for the Winter Olympics in Milan approaching, Naumov is determined to honor his parents’ legacy. He emphasized that qualifying for the Olympics would mean “the absolute world” to him, as it was a frequent topic of discussion with his parents. The U.S. team will have three available spots, with Naumov vying for one alongside top competitors like Ilia Malinin and Jason Brown.
A Tribute Through Performance
Naumov believes that overcoming his emotional struggles can provide him strength in competition. He aims to channel his pain into motivation as he performs. “What if despite everything that happened to me, I can still go out there and do it?” he stated, illustrating his dedication to pushing through challenges. His performance was not just a competition; it was a poignant reminder of his family’s influence and his commitment to their memory.
As he prepares for the free skate competition, Naumov continues to draw upon the lessons and love his parents instilled in him. Standing on the ice, he feels both their absence and their spirit, eternally motivating him through the trials of his athletic journey.
