Matteo Rizzo: “I reached the end of my physical energy. I think I spent a bit more than necessary for the Team Event, but that was an incredible emotion. An Olympic medal is something extremely important.”
Matteo Rizzo on his performance in the individual event at the 2026 Olympics.
original source: oasport.it dd. 16th January 2026 by Andrea Addezio
Italian skater Matteo Rizzo finished his free skate at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics in eighth place for now, reflecting on his physical fatigue and the emotional high of winning team bronze. Here’s a translation of his comments.
The 27-year-old from Rome scored 158.88 in the free skate, for a total of 243.18 points. Rizzo was not perfect on the quadruple toeloop but still showcased his quality in the other elements. Speaking to Rai, the Italian commented on his performance, analyzing his physical and mental condition.
“I had a bit of difficulty in the morning (of a free skate day) in the village for the first time since I’ve been here. I felt it physically and I can say I reached the end of my physical energy. I think I spent a bit more than necessary for the Team Event free skate, but that was an incredible emotion.”
“I knew the quad isn’t an easy element for me, but I’m happy I managed everything else. Despite the difficulty, I was able to finish the program with a smile, almost letting go of the skating and technical elements, just enjoying the audience and the atmosphere. I knew it wouldn’t be possible to recreate the same magic as the team event – it was something I’d never experienced before. An Olympic medal is something extremely important. In the individual event, my goal was the top 10; it won’t happen, but I can’t throw away my Olympics,” Rizzo concluded.
Related topics: Matteo Rizzo, Olympic Games
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