Mone Chiba: “Hanyu is still my idol and the skater I look up to. As a competitor, I want to keep aiming higher.”
Mone Chiba, who finished fourth in women’s singles at the Milano-Cortina Olympics, reflected on her performance, her gratitude for being able to skate, and her determination to peak at the upcoming World Championships.
original source: Hochi News dd. 11th March 2026
Mone Chiba, who placed fourth in women’s singles at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, held an open practice in Uji, Kyoto, on the 11th and spoke to the press. Here’s a translation of her comments.
“Q: What were you focusing on in today’s practice?
Mone Chiba: There are still areas where I can improve the overall flow of my program. I was conscious of practicing so I can deliver an even more upgraded performance.
Q: Looking back on your first Olympics at Milano-Cortina?
Mone Chiba: After it was over, I was able to clearly identify what I accomplished and what I didn’t. It was a very fruitful competition as one event in the season.
Q: Specifically, what didn’t you accomplish?
Mone Chiba: Every element. There were no major mistakes, but there’s room to improve the quality of each jump.
Q: Your enthusiasm for the final event of the season?
Mone Chiba: My goal was to peak at the Olympics this season, and I feel like I overcame a big hurdle. I want to peak at the World Championships. I want to give my all and complete my programs, ‘Last Dance’ and ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ as the culmination of my season.
Q: The women’s singles lineup for Worlds is the same three as the Olympics.
Mone Chiba: I was curious because Sakamoto (Kaori) was considering whether to compete, so I was happy when her participation was decided. I want to finish with a good feeling and a smile.
Q: March 11. You observed a moment of silence after practice.
Mone Chiba: For that one minute at 2:46 p.m. (the time the earthquake struck), I reflected on many things. Every year at this time, I remember. I can’t believe it’s been 15 years. I think I’ve grown as my environment has changed, but I have to be grateful that I can practice like this, and I must never forget.
Q What do you remember from that time?
Mone Chiba: I was in the car on the way to the rink (for practice). The shaking was stronger than anything I’d ever experienced, and it was scary. The electricity and water at home were out, and it was inconvenient. I spent all my time with my family.
Q: You moved your training base to Kyoto in your third year of high school. How do you feel about your hometown?
Mone Chiba: It’s the place where I was born and raised, and whenever I go back, I feel at peace. I hope it always stays that way.
Q: You experienced the Olympic stage like your idol, Yuzuru Hanyu.
Mone Chiba: He’s still my idol and the skater I look up to. As a competitor, I want to keep aiming higher.”
Related topics: Mone Chiba
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