Rion Sumiyoshi: “I won’t give up here, and I will keep working hard so that in four years, I can skate on the Olympic stage.”
Rion Sumiyoshi announced she will continue her competitive figure skating career.
original source: Nikkansports 31st. December 2025
Rion Sumiyoshi (22) declared on December 31 via Instagram that she will continue her competitive career aiming for a comeback at the 2030 Olympics after missing out on the Milano-Cortina team. Here’s a translation.
Sumiyoshi had aimed to make the Japanese team for the Milano-Cortina Olympics next February but did not secure one of the three spots. After the free skate at Nationals, which also served as the final Olympic selection, she did not participate in the scheduled media interviews.
“Thank you always for your support.
Though it’s late, I want to sincerely thank everyone for the warm encouragement at the Japanese Nationals!
I did everything I could to prepare, and my condition was probably the best it’s ever been, so it took me a while to process things since I couldn’t find anything to regret. Now, I’ve accepted the results, thought things through, and my feelings are settled. I will continue competing, aiming for a comeback in four years.
Also, I’d like to share the feelings I put into this year’s program.
In February this year, my father passed away from cancer. He was truly a kind person who always said, “As long as Rion enjoys skating, that’s all that matters.” Thanks to his support – not just financially, but in daily life and emotionally – I was able to devote myself to the skating I love.
I went through a long rebellious phase with my father, and even after that, I felt shy about talking to him as I used to, so I never properly expressed my gratitude before he passed away. I carried that regret and lingering feeling with me, and it happened to be time for choreography.
Misha (Ge) understood my situation and feelings during the choreography process, and helped me put my gratitude to my father into this short program. Especially at the beginning, I perform as if I’m taking my father’s hand and walking together. I’m grateful to Misha for creating such a special choreography for me.
Until I felt at peace, I didn’t talk about this to the media, but I wanted to share it here.
I was aiming to skate this program at the Olympics as a gift to my father, so I am filled with regret. But I won’t give up here – I’ll keep working hard so that in four years, I can skate on the Olympic stage, carrying the feelings of everyone who supports me!
I’d be happy if you continue to watch over and support me. It’s getting colder, so please take care of yourselves. “
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