Shaidorov Wins Olympic Gold: Figure Skating Results & Upsets

Kazakhstan’s Shaidorov Claims Historic Olympic Gold in Figure Skating Upset

February 14, 2026 – In a stunning turn of events at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Mikhail Shaidorov of Kazakhstan has secured the gold medal in men’s figure skating, achieving a monumental upset and delivering his nation its first Olympic gold in the sport in 32 years. Shaidorov’s total score of 291.58 points edged out Japan’s Yuma Kagiyama (280.06 points) for silver, while Shun Sato also of Japan, took bronze with 274.90 points.

The victory was particularly remarkable given the pre-competition expectations surrounding American skater Ilia Malinin, widely considered the favorite. Malinin, known as the “Quad God” for being the first skater to land a quadruple axel in competition, struggled through his free skate, ultimately finishing in eighth place with a score of 264.49 points. He fell twice during his performance, visibly shaken by the pressure of the moment.

Shaidorov’s performance on Friday night was described as a career highlight, earning him 198.64 points in the free skate. His technical element score of 114.68 led all competitors and his program component score of 83.96 reflected a growing maturity in his skating. He executed a technically ambitious program with composure, a stark contrast to the struggles of many of his rivals.

The drama unfolded as Shaidorov, skating 20th in the order, watched as one after another of the top contenders faltered. He described the experience as “very surprising,” acknowledging Malinin’s importance to the sport but emphasizing his own dedication to achieving his goal. “It was my goal. It’s why I’m training every day, and why I wake up and go to the training. That’s it,” Shaidorov said after his win.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric as the realization of Shaidorov’s victory dawned on him. He initially believed he had secured a bronze medal, then silver, before finally understanding he had won gold as subsequent skaters failed to surpass his score.

Malinin’s disappointing performance came after a successful showing in the team event, where he won gold with the United States. However, his individual free skate was marred by errors, including a fall on a quad lutz and a subsequent fall on a double salchow. He did not attempt the quadruple axel during the competition, a move that had previously defined his skating.

Kagiyama, considered Malinin’s closest rival, also faced challenges, falling on a quad flip and settling for silver. Sato’s bronze medal completed the podium, marking a strong showing for the Japanese team.

France’s Adam Siao Him Fa finished seventh with a score of 269.27 points, a result that left him with regrets, as he had been considered a potential gold medal contender.

Shaidorov’s victory builds on the legacy of Denis Ten, who won Kazakhstan’s first Olympic medal in figure skating – a bronze – in 2014. This gold medal represents a significant milestone for Kazakhstani winter sports and a moment of national pride.

The men’s free skate was characterized by widespread struggles among the top contenders, with five of the final six skaters suffering falls. Shaidorov’s clean performance stood out as a testament to his skill, composure, and unwavering focus.