This is the first skater I have seen since Rudi Cerne (in 1984) who improved significantly as s/he approaches the "retirement age." Wow, she is far stronger in every aspect, from her general delivery, jumps, spins, to steps. In particular, her landing edge is so clean, crisp and smooth that there is absolutely no doubt that she will land those jumps with as much speed as she entered! Truly impressive.
Akiko's coach told her (before this season) that if she wants to reach the top, 3-3 combination is necessary- she admitted in a Japanese interview that it's been a challenge, yet she did really well in this competition.
one of the better programs I've seen form akiko! She seems more refined and energetic at the same time in her movements! Although on that last spin she does "travel" across the ice a little, that is nothing...Hope she keeps up the good work! :)
She's 26 and just slammed out a Triple / Triple!!
Good girl Akiko !!
ChavaAyanna 2 months ago
I just love her! She's such a beautiful inspiration. ^_^
Classic1940s 2 months ago
Really love her gesture after the 2A! Great program!
amusatized 3 months ago
i am becoming her fan...! beautiful skating and a charming musical style
nadador64 3 months ago
How cool! And her smile is very impressive. Go Akiko!
from Japanese
syun4010 3 months ago
Really nice program. Does anyone know who choreographed her program?
mkfan5858 3 months ago
@mkfan5858 Anjelika Krylova did her SP, and Pasquale Camerlengo did her FS (which IMO is also an excellent program).
NoodleParty 3 months ago
powerful skating. I'm happy for her to take the first spot. well deserved.
Jiloverz 3 months ago
She's so musical & expressive. It would be very "Nice" if she were to skate this well at Worlds as well :).
hermioneonice 3 months ago 5
@hermioneonice I just hope she MAKES the world team and they don't find some way of keeping her off as in the past! :/
faeryquene 3 months ago 5
This is the first skater I have seen since Rudi Cerne (in 1984) who improved significantly as s/he approaches the "retirement age." Wow, she is far stronger in every aspect, from her general delivery, jumps, spins, to steps. In particular, her landing edge is so clean, crisp and smooth that there is absolutely no doubt that she will land those jumps with as much speed as she entered! Truly impressive.
nondescriptnyc 3 months ago
@nondescriptnyc
Akiko's coach told her (before this season) that if she wants to reach the top, 3-3 combination is necessary- she admitted in a Japanese interview that it's been a challenge, yet she did really well in this competition.
hummybear15 3 months ago
Light, fast and an adorable smile.
AMAubert 3 months ago
one of the better programs I've seen form akiko! She seems more refined and energetic at the same time in her movements! Although on that last spin she does "travel" across the ice a little, that is nothing...Hope she keeps up the good work! :)
xflyacrosstimex 3 months ago
yes!!! Great Job! I hope she wins worlds.!
yorishiku2525 3 months ago