Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara: “From now on, we want to take on various activities so that more people can learn about pair skating, and eventually, we hope to study and become coaches together.”
Retiring pair skaters Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara aim to become coaches and promote pair skating in Japan, focusing on developing the next generation and overcoming barriers to the sport’s growth.
original source: sponichi.co.jp dd. 18th April 2026
The figure skating pair of Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara, who announced their retirement at the end of this season, are looking ahead to becoming coaches and are committed to promoting pair skating and nurturing future talent in Japan. Here’s a translation of their comments.
Marking a new chapter, Rikuryu attended a spring garden party in traditional Japanese attire, enjoying a conversation with the Emperor and Empress. The two expressed their aspirations: “From now on, we want to take on various activities so that more people can learn about pair skating, and eventually, we hope to study and become coaches together.”
True to their words, they intend to devote themselves to the spread and development of pair skating. Kihara, who switched to pairs in 2013, once remarked, “In the past, it was rare for the audience seats to be filled with fans.” While couple skating has gained more attention, only three pairs participated in this season’s Japanese Nationals. The prevalence of dangerous elements like lifts, as well as a lack of dedicated rinks and coaches, remain obstacles to the sport’s growth. Kihara pointed out that “the hurdles are high” for learning pairs in Japan.
There are many areas that need improvement, such as lowering psychological barriers to starting the sport and enhancing training environments. Kihara also shared his vision for the future: “Since Miura understands the female role better than I do, rather than coaching alone, I’d like us to coach together as a team.”
“Continuing to achieve results is what will lead to the future of Japanese pair skating.” Their role as top competitors has ended, but their shared dream remains: “To make Japan a powerhouse in pair skating.” Though their competitive careers have concluded, their partnership continues. Rikuryu’s journey will take on a new form.
Related topics: Riku Miura Ryuichi Kihara
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