Sato Shun Tops Short Program at Men’s Figure Skating Championships with Season-Best Score

Sato Shun Leads Cup of China Short Program Despite Time Penalty

Sato Shun performed impressively at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Cup of China 2024 in Chonqing. He came close to a personal best score but received a time violation penalty that impacted his total.

The 20-year-old skater showcased a routine to “Ladies in Lavender” by Joshua Bell. He executed a quadruple Lutz, a quad toeloop-triple toeloop combination, and a triple Axel, landing all jumps successfully. He earned level fours for all his spins and a level two for his step sequence.

Sato scored 98.75. However, a one-point deduction for exceeding the time limit prevented him from breaking his prior best of 99.20 from the Four Continents Championships in February 2024. Still, he achieved the best score of the season so far.

Mikhail Shaidorov from Kazakhstan is following Sato, scoring 93.21. He also opened with a strong quad Lutz but lost points in choreography and artistry. Shaidorov aims for podium finishes after winning bronze last season.

In third place is Adam Siao Him Fa from France with a score of 91.22. He fell on his quadruple toeloop, repeating a fall from earlier in the season. Although he impressed the audience with a mid-routine backflip, the fall significantly affected his score.

Chinese skater Jin Boyang ranks sixth with 83.66 points. He faced an under-rotation call on his triple Lutz-triple toe combination, limiting his placement.

Overall, Sato Shun is leading the event, showcasing his potential for future competitions.