The world of figure skating, and particularly pairs skating, has seen a surge in public interest recently, fueled not only by athletic achievements but also by the insightful and enthusiastic commentary of former athletes. marks a moment where the transition from competitor to analyst is particularly noteworthy, as evidenced by the reception to Narumi Takahashi, a six-time Japanese national champion.
Takahashi, born , in Chiba, Japan, retired from competitive skating in . Her career highlights include a bronze medal at the 2012 World Championships with partner Mervin Tran – a historic achievement as the first World medal for a Japanese pair – and a silver medal at the 2010 Junior World Championships. She also competed in the 2014 Sochi Olympics. Throughout her career, she skated with multiple partners, including Ryo Shibata, Ryuichi Kihara, and Alexandr Zaboev.
However, recent attention surrounding Takahashi isn’t focused on her past athletic accomplishments, but rather her vibrant commentary during a recent historic win by the Japanese pair, Miura Rika and Kihara Ryuichi, affectionately known as “Rikuryu.” The pair secured a gold medal with the highest-ever free program score, making a remarkable comeback from fifth place in the short program. Takahashi’s commentary during their performance has gone viral on social media, demonstrating a level of excitement and engagement that resonated deeply with viewers.
Reports detail Takahashi’s enthusiastic reactions throughout the performance. She exclaimed “What a beauty!” during a slow jump and repeatedly shouted “Yes! That’s it!” as the duo progressed. The climax of her commentary involved passionately repeating “awesome” eight times, culminating in the declaration that the performance was “the best in the universe!” Her emotional response, expressing joy and happiness, further connected her to the audience.
This enthusiastic style of commentary, while widely appreciated, appears to have taken Takahashi somewhat by surprise. She reportedly wasn’t fully aware of the extent of the online buzz surrounding her reactions, attributing this to differences in internet culture between Japan and Italy. This highlights a fascinating dynamic – a seasoned athlete, accustomed to the pressure of competition, finding herself unexpectedly celebrated for her unfiltered enthusiasm as an analyst.
Beyond her commentary, Takahashi’s post-competitive life reveals a multifaceted individual. She attended Makuhari High School and, during her junior high years, returned to Japan after spending five years in China, where her father’s work took the family. This experience, including attending international school, likely broadened her perspective and contributed to her ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Takahashi’s career transition also touches upon the challenges faced by athletes regarding body image and health. In a recent interview, she revealed that she didn’t experience her first menstrual period until age 26, after retiring from competition. This was linked to a long history of weight management by coaches, leading to a mindset where eating felt counterproductive to her training efforts. This candid admission sheds light on the pressures athletes face and the potential long-term health consequences of intense training regimens and restrictive dietary practices.
Takahashi is actively pursuing a “second career” beyond skating and commentary. She has expressed ambitions, albeit jokingly, of one day becoming the Minister of Sports in Japan. This ambition, coupled with her involvement with the entertainment agency Matsushita Entertainment, suggests a desire to leverage her platform and experience to contribute to the broader sports landscape.
The case of Narumi Takahashi illustrates a compelling narrative of athletic achievement, insightful analysis, and a candid exploration of personal health challenges. Her journey from competitive skater to celebrated commentator and aspiring public figure demonstrates the diverse paths available to athletes after retirement and the importance of utilizing their experiences to inspire and engage with the public. Her unique perspective, honed by years of dedication to her sport and a willingness to share her personal experiences, continues to captivate audiences and solidify her position as a prominent figure in the world of figure skating.
Her commentary style, described as “unique” and even “a bit of a cheat day” for viewers, provides a refreshing and engaging experience, moving beyond traditional analytical approaches. This resonates with a broader audience, demonstrating the power of genuine enthusiasm and emotional connection in sports broadcasting.
