Kaori Sakamoto: “It was like a roller coaster. I truly felt so many emotions over those 17 days. But I’m satisfied that I was able to win a medal of a better color than at the Beijing Olympics.”
Kaori Sakamoto, who won silver medals in both the women’s and team events at the Milano-Cortina Olympics, described her final Games as an emotional “roller coaster” and reflected on her growth and memorable experiences.
original source: Hochi News dd. 25 th February 2026
Kaori Sakamoto (25), who earned silver medals in both women’s figure skating and the team event, looked back on her final 17 days at the Olympics with a smile, describing them as “like a roller coaster.” Here’s a translation of her comments.
On the February 24th, the Japanese Olympic team, which won a record 24 medals at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, returned to Japan. A press conference was held in Tokyo, attended by 15 medalists.
The 17 days in Milan were filled with a full range of emotions for Sakamoto in her last Olympics. Unlike her previous two Games, she experienced a mix of feelings. “It was like a roller coaster. I truly felt so many emotions over those 17 days,” she reflected.
As a mood-maker, Sakamoto led Team Japan in the team event, which began before the opening ceremony, contributing to their second consecutive silver medal. “Everyone performed so well, and I really felt that these three days were irreplaceable moments for everyone. I was truly happy that we were able to win the silver medal,” she said.
She spent the days leading up to the individual event battling pressure. “I was filled with anxiety, but I managed to reset my mindset for the individual competition.” She placed second in the short program (SP). In the free skate, she made a frustrating mistake when her planned combination jump became a single, but she performed “Hymne à l’amour” with deep emotion until the end.
“It wasn’t a perfect performance, but I’m satisfied that I was able to win a medal of a better color than at the Beijing Olympics.” She upgraded her bronze from the previous Games to silver. The fact that she could feel frustrated became an opportunity to recognize her own growth. “I think this will be something I can build on in the future. These 17 days have truly become wonderful memories.” She smiled together with her fellow medalists.
Kaori Sakamoto also served as a flag bearer alongside men’s speed skater Wataru Morishige at the Olympic Closing Ceremony.
After fulfilling her important role, Sakamoto smiled and said, “In an atmosphere that felt like an Italian story, I was able to walk together with Morishige-san as flag bearers and have a great time. Watching the closing ceremony at the beautiful Verona Olympic Arena with my fellow TEAM JAPAN members, including my figure skating teammates, was a truly valuable experience.”
Related topics: Kaori Sakamoto, Olympic Games
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