Japanese figure skater Kaori Sakamoto discussed her approach to advancing technical content, specifically the quad loop, in a candid assessment of training mood and readiness. She described her process as less about rigid checklists and more about timing and confidence. When she feels physically strong enough, she focuses on jumping work, letting momentum and balance guide the plan of the day. There is no insistence on chasing a fixed set of milestones; instead, she prompts herself with a simple question before practice: what if today I attempt another spin or a new combination?
In a broader sense, Sakamoto frames preparation as situational rather than prescriptive. She aims to be poised for the moment when the sport’s landscape shifts, notably if rival skaters from Russia return to major events. Her stance reflects an ongoing evaluation of how her current technique stacks up against the competitive field, acknowledging that additional elements may be required to contend with top contenders when they reappear on the world stage .
During the World Championships held in Montreal, the skating program culminated with Sakamoto securing the gold medal, leading the field by a comfortable margin over the runner-up. Her performance solidified Canada’s role as a central hub for high-stakes competition that season. The podium also featured Kim Chae-yong of South Korea in bronze, marking a notable moment for there competitive history .
The international sporting calendar around that period was shaped by governance actions affecting eligibility. At the end of February 2022, the International Olympic Committee urged international sports federations to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competition. In response, the International Skating Union imposed suspensions that removed athletes from those countries from events, reflecting a broader stance on eligibility during that geopolitical moment .
Overall, Sakamoto’s remarks illuminate a philosophy of constant readiness, a readiness measured not by dreams alone but by the practical pacing of workouts and the courage to push when the body and mind align. Her narrative underscores the delicate balance between self-trust in technique and awareness of a shifting competitive field, all while maintaining focus on peak performance when it matters most for the sport’s leading events .