In a thrilling Skate America 2025 event, Japan’s Rinka Watanabe took the lead over reigning champion Alysa Liu. The competition showcased remarkable performances and highlighted the intense rivalry among top figure skaters.
Key Performances in Skate America 2025
Rinka Watanabe earned significant recognition with an impressive score of 9.60 points for her triple Axel, which she executed in her short program set to “Tango Roxanne.” Watanabe is set to incorporate two additional triple Axels in her upcoming free skate, underlining her commitment to excellence and preparation.
Alysa Liu’s Emotional Moment
Alysa Liu, now 20 years old, is pursuing her first Grand Prix title after her remarkable comeback. Following a short retirement, Liu captured the world title last season in Boston. During her Skate America debut, she expressed mixed emotions, telling reporters, “I didn’t cry; I didn’t cry guys,” while maintaining a light-hearted demeanor.
Other Competitors Shine
- Starr Andrews: Finished in sixth place with a score of 64.38, captivating the audience with her performance of Beyoncé’s “Run the World.”
- Lee Haein: A 2023 world medallist, returned to strong form, reflecting on her nerves and expressing excitement about participating in the Korean nationals as she aims for Olympic qualification.
The Road to the Olympics
As the figure skating community gears up for the Olympics, the competition intensifies. Athletes like Lee Haein are feeling the pressure but are also motivated by their national representation. Liu’s consistent performances and Watanabe’s ambitious routines set the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.
The Skate America 2025 event has proven to be a pivotal moment in the careers of these talented skaters, shaping their paths as they aim for success on the international stage.
