Mao Shimada: “Since I’ve come this far, I want to finish juniors with the feeling that it was ‘fun'”
Mao Shimada declares ambition for senior-level figure skating
original source: Nikkansports dd. July 26th, 2025
Mao Shimada (16), the reigning three-time Junior World Champion in women’s figure skating, announced her intent to rise to the senior ranks during training camp on August 26. Shimada, who has dominated the junior circuit, is now setting her sights on competing with senior skaters in her final junior season. Here’s a translation of her comments.
Attending the All-Japan Junior Training Camp at the Kansai International Ice Arena in Osaka, Shimada trained alongside rising talents such as Ikura Kushida (Kinoshita Academy) and Mei Okada (Meito FSC). Her lessons included guidance from Alissa Czisny (38), the 2010 Grand Prix Final champion, among other renowned figures.
“It’s really exciting to practice with such amazing skaters my age – it’s been incredibly inspiring and productive,” Shimada said of the experience.
During an open practice session, Shimada successfully landed a quad toe loop and pushed herself to attempt a quad salchow.
“It’s still far from perfect,” she remarked, showcasing her determination to keep improving.
In a run-through of her free skate program, set to “Miracle” by world-renowned musician YOSHIKI, Shimada landed challenging elements such as a triple axel and a triple flip-double axel combination with ease. She attributed her solid performance to consistent efforts:
“I’ve worked hard to keep fluctuations in my performance to a minimum,” she noted, reflecting her steady conditioning.
Due to age restrictions, Shimada is ineligible to compete at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics in February, but this season holds special significance as her final year in junior competition.
“Since I’ve come this far, I want to finish juniors with the feeling that it was ‘fun,’” Shimada shared, with an eye on achieving new milestones.
Her ultimate goal this year is to claim gold at the All-Japan Championships in December. Though she secured second place at the same event last season – despite competing against senior-level skaters – she acknowledged the gap between herself and the more experienced competitors:
“There are still areas where I’m not on par with senior skaters, but I hope to improve on last year’s result and aim for the top spot.”
During the offseason, Shimada focused on improving her physical stamina by incorporating circuit training into her regimen. This additional preparation reflects her determination to excel in both domestic and international competitions this season. She is set to compete in the Junior Grand Prix (JGP) Thailand event (September 9–13) and the United Arab Emirates event (October 8–11).
“I want to aim as high as possible,” she stated, ready to face her final junior season with unrelenting fighting spirit.
Related topics: Mao Asada
Leave a Reply