Ilia Malinin Makes Olympic History with Backflip, Eyes Quadruple Axel at Milan Cortina Games
MILAN, Italy — Ilia Malinin, the American figure skater famously dubbed the “Quad God,” stunned audiences at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina by landing the first legal Olympic backflip in fifty years. This daring feat, last seen at the 1976 Innsbruck Games, helped propel Team USA to a gold medal in the team figure skating event, reigniting excitement around one of the sport’s most controversial moves.
Malinin’s backflip had been banned for decades due to safety concerns, but the 21-year-old’s flawless execution brought it back into the spotlight with a fresh wave of admiration. The last skater to land the move legally at the Olympics was fellow American Terry Kubicka, who performed it in 1976. Malinin’s successful landing was met with thunderous applause and marked a milestone in Olympic figure skating history.
Following his historic performance, Malinin hinted at an even more ambitious goal: attempting the first-ever quadruple axel at the Olympic Games. The quadruple axel is widely regarded as the most difficult jump in figure skating, requiring four and a half rotations in the air. Malinin, who will compete in Friday’s men’s free skate, enters the event as the gold medal favorite.
“I’m hoping that I’ll feel good enough to do it,” Malinin told reporters, emphasizing the importance of health and safety in his decision-making process. “I always prioritize putting myself in the right condition to perform such a difficult jump.” His cautious optimism reflects the high stakes of attempting a move that has never been landed in Olympic competition.
The United States has a storied history in figure skating, and Malinin’s breakthrough continues that legacy. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee celebrated his achievement, noting the impact of his performance on the sport’s evolution. The quadruple axel, if successfully landed, would represent a new frontier in figure skating, pushing the boundaries of athleticism and artistry.
Malinin’s rise has been closely followed by fans and experts alike. His technical prowess and fearless approach have earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting talents in the sport. The U.S. Figure Skating Association has lauded his contributions to advancing the sport’s technical standards.
The 2026 Winter Olympics have showcased a range of memorable moments, but Malinin’s backflip stands out as a defining highlight. The International Olympic Committee’s official site provides comprehensive coverage of the Games, underscoring the significance of such groundbreaking performances on the world stage (Olympics.com Milan Cortina 2026).
As Malinin prepares for the men’s free skate, the figure skating community watches eagerly. Should he succeed in landing the quadruple axel, it would not only secure his place in Olympic history but also inspire a new generation of skaters to push the limits of what is possible.
For more updates on the Winter Olympics and figure skating, the Team USA figure skating page offers detailed athlete profiles and event schedules.
Malinin’s blend of innovation, courage, and skill continues to captivate audiences, embodying the Olympic spirit of excellence and determination.
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