Kazuki Tomono: “I’ve spent a lot of my life finishing second to sixth, so I’m used to being the chaser. But now, my challenge is to show overwhelming strength from that position.”
Kazuki Tomono reflects on Grand Prix series
original source: number.bunshun.jp dd. 26th November 2025 by Akiko Tamura
Kazuki Tomono reflects on his emotional third-place finish at Skate America, his growth as a competitor, and his determination to aim for the top at the upcoming Japanese Nationals. Here’s a translation of his comments posted on Sports Graphic Number Web.
After the free skate at Skate America, Tomono appeared in the mixed zone with traces of tears on his cheeks, but he faced the press with a refreshed expression, having regained his composure.
Tomono: “I put everything I’ve experienced in the Grand Prix into this, thinking this might be my last one… Well, I’m not sure. But if it’s an overseas competition, this might be the last time I go all out like this… I don’t know, though…”
At 27, Tomono has hinted that this Olympic season may be his last as a competitor. Whether he will end his career this season or continue a bit longer remains undecided.
Tomono: “I was able to perform with the feeling that I want to be the best, so I think that was the biggest takeaway and a really good thing.”
At the press conference after scoring 95.77 to lead the SP, an American reporter pointed out that this was his 16th Grand Prix event. Tomono replied, “I’d never counted before, so hearing that now really surprises me… I guess I’ve worked hard…”
Asked about the pressure of skating last and how he felt about still making the podium, Tomono replied:
“I did feel pressure, but today was about revenge against my past self. I’ve had many competitions where it was tough in the same situation. I went in determined to fight today, but it didn’t work out… Skating last with the intention to win is difficult, but that’s also the fun of sport. I was really frustrated, but I also realized I can now say I’m frustrated with third place. Still, I came here aiming for first, so this kind of frustration is new and a valuable experience. I want to take this positive energy into Nationals.”
In a later interview, he added: “I’ve never felt this frustrated with third place before. Usually, I’d just think, ‘Well, third is good enough,’ and move on. I tend to forget competitions quickly, but I think I’ll never forget this one.”
When asked that maybe his program components could have reached the 9-point range, he replied: “Well… I think my strengths as a skater are coming through, but this is a sport. I believe an athlete’s strengths and weaknesses are reflected in the scores, and maybe I’m still lacking in those areas,” he analyzed. “It’s not a sport where you get points just for being good. Maybe my weaknesses as a competitor are reflected in the scores,” he said candidly.
For now, his next big stage is the Japanese Nationals, where the Milan-Cortina Olympic team will be selected.
Tomono: “I’ve spent a lot of my life finishing second to sixth, so I’m used to being the chaser. But now, my challenge is to show overwhelming strength from that position,” he said, looking ahead. “I want to go home, keep imagining situations like this, and train with that in mind. I think I have the courage to be number one, or at least the ability. What’s left is the belief in myself.”
Related topics: grand prix, Kazuki Tomono
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