@Amocktus the problem is that the new judging system makes us do so many combinations/hard jumps/specific revolutions on spins that you're too tired to do anything else. They give decimal points for everything-you can't even do fast footwork anymore.
I still love to watch figure skating. However, there is no skater out there today who can fill her shoes. As far as I'm concerned, she's the best and always will be the best skater of all time.
Kwan sounds so slow, unarticulated, measured, and scripted. Takes her a million words to sound out a simple cliche in her attempt to pass off as philosophical.
Oh, TARA, TARA. Bothered by the fact that you weren't even good enough to compete at this competition? Maybe if you spent your time looking for a job, instead of spamming Kwan's videos using your infinite number of usernames, something productive would occupy your psyche and you wouldn't have all this bitterness toward the skating legend that you will never be like...
@annief31 What on earth are you babbling about? Tara WON this event. Creaming your overrated and arrogant Kwan. Tara will always be an Olympic CHAMPION while your Kween a two-time Olympic CHOKER.
@allenglandlawns Yes, Tara won this event because Michelle Kwan didn't skate well in the short program... Michelle won and deserved to win the LP at this event. Tara won the Olympics because Michelle didn't skate her best in the LP in Nagano... Michelle's best IS better than Tara's best...
OMG...getting up after being trampled? What on earth does SHE know? She stamped on so many skaters throughout her career, it's absolutely sickening to hear her give advice to others.
Doubled a lutz and she still wins the free? Any other skater would have paid dearly for that. Tara gave her a heavy beatdown here despite every given possible break from the judges to give Kwan the title.
@hrjr2009 Well then, I am impressed with your insight on this particular matter. However, I still feel the judges tried hard to give her this title even though Tara completely blew her out of the water.
@hrjr2009 I clearly think that if getrealandsee wouldn't be posting all of these boorish nonsense, then I wouldn't be coming in either! Not to mention acquiring all of these additional screen name so she would be posting twisted hysterics. I am getting sick of seeing that insolent creature in here! Michelle Kwan clearly is a better figure skater from what I see in these videos! Getrealandsee croaks like a toad on acid. Incredible.
Ha! I must be doing a really good job bc everyone thinks I'm getrealandsee or some other names. This is very amusing and I enjoy watching Kwan defenders try to justify themselves and others. Please continue!
@allenglandlawns I really don't know or care if you're Getrealandsee... I just suspected it (the two of you have similar writing styles and views). Take care.
Admiring those who get up after being trampled? Michelle trampled over so many skaters in her career, it's ridiculous. Given a lot of titles, medals left and right with mediocre or crappy skates while REAL athletes, who were never given any breaks, literally have to break their backs to push the sport while this wannabe lapped up all the praise. She was never held at the same standards as her rivals and that's completely UNFAIR.
@allenglandlawns Michelle "trampled" over many skaters in her career? This statement is ludicrous. Please elaborate. Which titles and medals were given to her? Kwan earned ALL of her medals. This program above is a masterpiece of choreography. This performance was VASTLY superior to Tara's program (a very bland and dull program). I actually think that Michelle Kwan should have won the Gold medal here. Irina should have beaten Tara in the long and Michelle won and deserved to win the LP.
@Karosanyo Hi! Good to hear from you again. =) Of course I would love to explain my line of logic (even if you might disagree). I actually like most of Michelle's very pretty programs including this one. I just don't think it's suitable for high level athletics. If it was a beauty pageant-like ice show, than yes, she earned it! I don't like the way Michelle never pushed her ante like Tara did. So what if Tara skated the same programs over and over. Her programs were risky and athletic..continued
@allenglandlawns Michelle's programs were mostly very difficult (in terms of choreography and many triples). The choreography of this Taj Mahal program was very complex and difficult. The choreography in Tara's programs were always the same simple and safe fluff. Michelle's choreography, spins (her COE double Y spin and spinning in both directions was more difficult than any spin that Tara did), spiral, lines, extension, edging and footwork were better and difficult than Tara's same elements.
@Karosanyo Tara safe and simple? She skated faster and had faster and better spins (good leg on layback/low sit spins). Who cares if it's simple fluff? Skating isn't a beauty pageant or figure 8s anymore. It's an athletic contest and Tara PUSHED the sport forward in that direction. Kwan's difficult choreography? Is it THAT tiring to wave your arms and make facial expressions? Lots of triples? That's her way of compensating her lack of courage/skill of doing risky 3/3s. Tara also did 7 too.
@allenglandlawns No. Michelle's spins were better and more difficult. Nobody had a better sit spin than Kwan. I never liked Tara's layback (the bend in her back was mediocre). Tara truly skated the same program over and over (she wasn't versatile like Kwan). Michelle had footwork and a lot of transitions. Tara never took risks with her choreography. Michelle also had a lot more ice coverage than Tara. All is Michelle lacked was a more difficult 3/3, but doing 7 triples still isn't "safe".
@Karosanyo OK, if you say is true about choreography, then this sport IS a beauty pageant that favors reputation over athletic merit. Tara risked it, pushed it like a champion and deserved all her wins. She's one of the few skaters who wasn't completely ripped off by Kwan's favoritism. Michelle's spins were more difficult? Layback sucked and sit spin was simple. Kwan stood on the shoulders of what others have done while Tara created new, inventive, and DIFFICULT moves.
@allenglandlawns Do you think that figure skating is all about jumps? Why should these skaters even have choreography in their programs? Choreography IS apart of figure skating. What new and inventive moves did Tara "create"? Kwan's layback "sucked"? I don't think so! The ones is her EOE SP and TRV were good and difficult (her EOE layback was INVENTIVE). Even her layback here was better than Tara's. How was Tara's sit spin more difficult? Michelle NEVER had favoritism at world level.
@Karosanyo You are absolutely right it's about the whole package and jumps are the most important elements and Tara had it all. She was a real athlete willing to push herself in all directions. She went to a ballet coach to improve her choreography and presentation. She worked and worked amid all the favoritism for a more popular but lesser skater and it paid off for her. Tara pioneered the 3loop/3loop something which NO woman attempts today and proved that risk/athleticism are key to winning.
@allenglandlawns I'll give Tara respect for doing the triple loop/ triple loop and her triple-triple sequence. I just feel that those were her only elements that she had (even if they were small). She knew that her artistry couldn't match Michelle's (Kwan's Lyra and Rach programs were masterpieces). I feel that everything is important in figure skating. Tara's jumps were so small and I hated her lutzes.
She did improve her presentation (she had the same choreography), but she still wasn't a match for Michelle's. I don't understand these statements about Michelle having favoritism at world level skating. You must have her confused with Oksana Baiul (a HIGHLY mediocre skater who WAS gifted a World and Olympic title). You and I both know that you don't genuinely feel that Michelle was a lesser skater than Tara...
@Karosanyo Mediocre? You must be kidding, or must be blind. Or you must be american and wanted woody-Kerrigan to win? I would LOVE Kwan to win gold, but dude, c'mon, Oksana Baiul, seriously? Have you even watched her? She is pure ART.
@Porporinablu I must be blind or kidding? Ever hear about diverse opinions? This has NOTING to do with being "American". That's ignorant. Yes, I watched her and I found her to be technically medicore. She was always two footing her jumps and she could never do triple combos in the LP. Her spins and artistry were fine. Her Swan Lake SP is a masterpiece, but that's the only program of hers that I consider great. Wooden Nancy? Nancy landed 5 triples with a 3/3. She should have won the OGM.
@allenglandlawns No one attempts the 3loop/3loop (which is difficult, sure) because it's likely at least one of the jumps will be under-rotated - the technology in 2010/2011 is far superior to 1997/98. Tara's jumps always looked perilously close to under-rotation. I really don't think Tara "had it all" but I will question whether Michelle Kwan would've continued in amateur ranks if she'd won OG in 1998.
@Karosanyo Hey I have to take off right now but I hope to do this again with you soon. I truly enjoy our debates and completely respect the way you approach my opinions and the way you present yours. Take care :)
@Karosanyo Don't be fooled. Allenglandlawns is the same person as getrealandsee, Ithinkformyself, kwansansog, cleareyed1 and probably other names. He/she/it has tried to take a more reasonable tone but still bombards Kwan videos with snarky comments about "simple" programs and "spoiling Emily's dream." She/he/it even responds to her own comments posted under the getrealandsee name, saying "I agree!" Good thing, because no one else does!
@Karosanyo All you do, with you multiple accounts -- which is dishnest -- is spew hate. I think everyone here who objects to your disrupitve spam should bring your corruption to the powers that be here at youtube.
@Karosanyo Don't encourage the spamming troll by engaging it. It doesn't debate; it simply spewsw hate behind a transparently thin veneer of lying about being "respectful" and the like. Michelle Kwan is the most decorated skater in US history because mycriad judges held so. And there is no comparison as concernsw standing ovactions; Kwan's were nearconstant, T(i)ara's extremely rare.
@allenglandlawns Michelle usually did seven to six triples in a program. How is this playing it safe? All is Tara had was her 3L-3L and her double axel sequence. Figure skating isn't just about the jumps. I prefer Michelle's jumps to Tara's. Michelle had much better height and her lutzes were more solid. Tara's jumps were so small! Tara never pushed her artistry like Michelle did (she skated the same program her whole career).
@allenglandlawns You're not sure if Michelle deserved the silver here??? This program put Tara's to shame! If the judges truly wanted Michelle to win they would have given Irina the scores that she deserved (Kwan won and deserved to win the LP and Irina should have came in second in the LP).
@Karosanyo Tara skated great and I thought she deserved the free skate. She pushed it, did risky programs and it paid off in the overall result. Yeah her jumps were smallish, but she made up for it by risking failure, sheer athleticism, and succeeded by acing a skate no other woman in the competition would dare attempt (including Kwan). I guess you're right they didn't want Kwan to win because Tara was the one that rightfully DESERVED to win.
@Karosanyo When it comes to overall prettiness, Michelle's programs very well presented. I agree with you that the Taj Mahal was gorgeously choreographed, (same with Lyra, rach, dod, eoe, trv, sobs, dariane, carmen). I just don't see it as true athletic programs that deserved wins over those that are. That's why I think Tara deserved the edge over Kwan in Olympic-style meets. All Kwan had over ANY true champion was the name/reputation. She has her merits but she really is just a mediocre skater
@allenglandlawns You actually think that Tara's choreography in her program (she only ever had ONE program) was better and more difficult than all of Michelle's programs? Yes, Michelle programs were pretty but they were also very difficult and innovative. All is Tara had over Michelle WAS her more difficult triple-triples. Tara would win over Michelle when Michelle didn't skate her best. Everything else about Michelle skating was better. Tara was truly mediocre and lucked out.
@Karosanyo No, he she it doesn't "think" anything of the kind. He she it is simply a hater who is viciously bitter against anyone who outdid the childish twit T(i)ara, and the consistnetly inconsistent Cohen. And then throws in anyone esle in effort to drag Kwan down to their level.
I am fed up withh the constant spaming by this dishonest multiple-account slime who isn't fit for human society, and shall bring the constant hate-spewing spammer to the attention of youtube. All should.
@Karosanyo ...and exuded pure happiness with her skating (how is that dull?). Kwan reused simple and SAFE programs her whole career and was given medals when other skaters who did risk it and pushed themselves to be better were shoved aside to satiate Kwan's love for attention, pity, and praise. Did she deserve the silver here? Maybe, maybe not. But I certainly thought she was given every break possible here to get the gold while Tara had to earn hers. That's just my take =)
@allenglandlawns I just can't stand Tara's little jumps (she barley lifts off of the ice). Her lutzes were so ugly and flutzed as well. Her spins, spiral and choreography were also mediocre. (she skated the same program for three years in a row). Figure skating isn't just about jumps to me. It should be about everything. Kwan's Taj Mahal was very complex and unique. She landed six perfect triples with a triple-triple. I find it very funny that your buddy complains about her winning the silver.
A triple to a double and she pulls up to silver?? Propped up again and her talking about people who are crushed and get up is disgusting. She had titles and medals handed to her on a silver platter.
@kwansansog No, these vindictive posts of yours are truly disgusting. Get over it! Michelle landed six perfect triples with a great triple triple. The choreography in this program was very difficult and brilliant. She was vastly superior to Tara in the LP. She won the LP and deserved it...
@Karosanyo Nope:-)-) The gushing and swooning over Kwan is disgusting but also amusing at times. Kwan's defenders are determined and desperate for any excuse they can make for her. I saw one poster actually BLAMING Frank Carroll for Michelle's loss in Nagano. And it was a loss. Silver. Not Gold. Spin it any way you wish, and buy into Kwan's crap "I didn't lose the Gold, I won the Silver". Forget that she was sobbing, forget that there was an interview where she said:
@kwansansog Once again, these vindictive and slanderous posts are truly disgusting and sad. Just because YOU dislike the praising makes it "disgusting"? I always hated the praising of Oksana Baiul (I feel that she was truly a mediocre and propped up skater), but I am mature and confident enough to know that it's just their views. I'm not going around on her Youtube videos writing vindictive and slanderous posts over and over.
@kwansansog Michelle was a class act both times on the Olympic podium after her losses (kissing and helping Tara and Sarah on the podium). Lol, of course Tara was going to be ecstatic after winning the OGM! Did you expect her to be sad or something? Chen Lu stated that she didn't even think that she was going to win a medal (her LP wasn't clean). Winning was a big surprise for her and she was happy after a difficult year and a half (many were writing her off as a has been).
@kwansansog Michelle didn't expect them to give her that OGM. That statement is pure garbage and you know it. Once again, if they truly wanted her to win they would have made that happen (Like they did to Nancy Kerrigan in '94). Michelle stated that she did everything that she could (she won the short program and landed seven triples in the LP). Her heart was broken. After watching her own performance at those Games she stated that she wasn't free like she was at Nationals that same year.
@Snooks8383 Michelle Kwan is the pathetic, pitiable loser, not I. The comments on here are really quite amusing. Tara won because Michelle blew the short program. DUH!
@Karosanyo 'I have been known as a fighter and I can overcome this.' This being the silver that she won.
Tara and Lu Chen were so happy on the podium in Nagano and it showed. Lu Lu thrilled with her bronze medal and of course Tara utterly ecstatic with her Gold. And then there was Michelle Kwan. Sniveling, choking back tears, and covering the medal with her hands. She was SHOCKED that she wasn't handed the Olympic Gold medal just for staying on her feet. Safe, simple, silver.
@kwansansog Well, most of the Michelle Kwan detractors that I have debated with on this site state their OPINIONS as if they're FACT. Lol, "desperate"? No, I'm not the one that's been going around on Youtube for years stating the same repetition over and over. Some people even post under different usernames (now that's truly desperate). I don't want to generalize, though. I'm sure that now all of Michelle's non fans write these types of vindictive posts.
@Karosanyo Well, it seems that you get so ruffled up and defensive when it comes to comments that don't fawn over Kwan. It's like she can do no wrong and the fact that others don't think the same way, you villify them. And no, I only have ONE username. When you think past all the prettiness in her skating and her supposed graciousness, you see that she cheated this sport. Considering your constant defending of her, I don't expect you to see at all.
@allenglandlawns Are you actually serious? That is another half-baked assumption. These off-the-cuff statements are are getting ludicrous. I disagreed with some of Michelle's choices that she made in her CAREER. Many of those posts by that individual are vindictive and slanderous (ignorant thories). If I see opinions that I disagree with, I'm going to counter them with my own views. Unlike you and some others on here, I can differentiate fact and opinion...
@allenglandlawns I disagree with your opinion that Michelle cheated the sport. I think that's asinine. You disagree with me and I am fine with that. You and I have been over this time and time again. This will always be a divisive subject between us... Can YOU see this? Take care.
@kwansansog If ignorance is indeed bliss, you must be on cloud 9. Rather obvious that you know little and see less. All these wannabe "experts" who really know squat about figure skating.
Despite the mistakes of this season, the two programs Michelle put on the ice were two of her absolute best. It's a shame she never repeated either Dream of Desdemona or Taj.
It's sad that female skaters don't embrace creating characters on the ice as Michelle often did. Michelle created a story with costume, choice of music, moves, and just expression. I don't care what people about about the jumping beans of today. They lack the artistic passion that Michelle so often displayed. I miss her!
I think many skaters don't understand that many people like watching figure skating because it the most difficult kind of dance. so they should be dancers, not jumpers. I love kwans style- it's breathtaking
I really love Michelle's perspective here. It perfectly illustrates going from the Chaser to the Champion. And showing how difficult it is going from complete freedom to carrying the burden of expectation(from others but even more, yourself).
This program is OUTSTANDING!
And for the other US Ladies during her reign, her shadow shielded them from the pressure of outside expectation. Some took advantage while others were not able to.
I always wonder how matchups of years past would do under the system of points now used in figure skating. Tara had far superior spins in terms of speed etc. Her jumps however had terrible edges and were very often underrotated. She would never get the credit for her triple triples as she did then.
But Michele skates much slower and does not have flexibility in her spins etc but her footwork, artistry and almost perfect jump technique would have consistently had her athe top I think
sasha programs are also more about excitement where it will draw more younger kids attention. Without her loud and fast music, shes pretty much plain. While most kwan programs are more beautiful and classic
I know. I am just trying to be hopeful for Team USA. We have some graceful ladies, but none with the consistency of Kwan. We need "a fighter" like her.
ive never liked any of her long programs. always boring and slow n wierd music. actually sasha cohens are the only long routines ive actually ever found interesting and good entertainment along with grace and beauty.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
drama? how is there drama? no real music change or dramatic instrumental moments no expression or dramatic arm movements. boring spins. yes its beautiful, but no presonality. just cardboard cutout routines. and why would i watch NASCAR for drama when i could just watch Sasha Cohens "Carmen" or "Malaguena". she even found a way to make "Swan Lake" dramatic.
without sasha's fast loud music, she is pretty plain and boring. while kwan can skate to any kind of music. even though her tosco long program was emty, she still made that program one of the greatest ever skated at nationals. Sasha's loud music cover up her empty program. while kwan can skate with passion.
Don't be deceived by poster Kristirulesice. She is the multiple-identity (huetboy27, hatula87, muffycat26, hairbrush81, aaprato3, aaprato4, aaprato5, etc.) YOUTUBE EMPLOYEE who acts as a troll and abuses her emoployee access by messing up the comments and accounts of people she disagrees with (for example, Kwan supporters) on figure-skating videos.
The music is from Azerbaijan, where the overwhelming majority of people are Muslim, and the Taj Mahal is in fact a work of Muslim art. Saying she should have gone to Little India is somewhat faulty, because the current demographic of India shows a Hindu majority, not Muslim. The Mughal empire that built the Taj Mahal did not include Azerbaijan, but cultures move and travel over time, and in the end the Taj Mahal is more Muslim than it is Indian.
After watching Tara's LP again, I find the placements here very interesting, especially when compared to the placements in Nagano. Here Michelle had 6 triples including a 3-3. Her 3-3, however, was the easiest one. And she doubled her lutz. Tara's LP program had the same elements as in Nagano , yet it came in second here. In Nagano, Michelle skated a perfect program--no 3-3, but no doubled jump, either and it came in second to Tara's program.
I don't know about the Olympics, but according to the specialists, they said they saw a more "mature" skate from Michelle than Tara here at the Worlds long program!
You are right, it is interesting. Some differences I would suggest:
1. Both were close 6-3 splits that could have gone either way. A matter of opinion. Remember Irina also took 3 1st place votes in the long program here also, so she took might have won the long at these worlds.
2. MK was reigning world champion here, advantage MK. Tara was reigning world champion in Nagano, advantage TL.
3. A triple-triple which Michelle did here might be valued more then a second triple lutz.
skatefan9495: Very interesting observation! I had never noticed that... I guess one could argue that this program was overmarked (due to Tara still being relatively new on the international arena), or Kwan being undermarked (b/c she skated early) at the olympics. All I know is that Kwan is one of the greatest ever.
I never was a big Tara fan but she skated some of the most technically challenging programs of a women ever with amazing consistency and the judges had to reward her for that . Of course I agree Kwan is the more complete skater but Tara also had good spins, basic skating, good presentation for her age and was a very strong overall skater too. All in all it was an amazing rivalry. It is a shame Tara did not stay longer. I think Tara's early retirement was largely responsible for Irina's rise.
@grafgirl27 I don't think skating at a senior level for 2 (honestly, 1 3/4) seasons determines real "consistency." And she fell at the 98 Nationals. Her 3 loop 3 loop was amazing, but I don't think that should have earned her a gold medal. I think the skate order at the Olys helped her more than anything.
And yes, I totally agree that her departure made way for Irina. I think Tara could have developed some artistry had she stuck around. Irina never did, because the judges never made her.
And I'm dying to know what are these Indonesian elements you're arguing over. Please explain them to me.
I don't see the importance of a skating outfit having cultural auhenticity. These costumes are really designed to let the skater best maneuver across the ice while still being easy on the eyes.
I know that program's choreography had same elements from the previous year's long program. It didn't bother me.
Maybe you've seen bindis everywhere you live, but I swear I haven't seen non-Indian strangers applying them on their foreheads where I live. Just Gwen Stefani on TV.
And those Indonesian elements didn't seem to bother any figure skating fans except you for the past 11 years.
And who cares about Little India. I've seen Indians with bindis above the center of their eyebrows.
remember, it wasn't michelle who choreographed this routine...she was only 16 here...she had not developed her own sense of self yet, or the need to nit-pick her programs, she was to just skate them..
Well, I liked this program--the music, the choreography, & the outfit--and I do understand your opinion. Yeah, she picked another foreign, exotic theme, but YOU choose to believe it's almost identical from the year before.
& I don't think skaters really choose and arrange their own music with the short amount of time alloted. & I actually tried to search for "Taj Mahal" music, & it's not easy. A lot of Indian music is lyrical.
But by the way, are you Indian? It seem to bother you so much.
yup, figure skating needs the kwandrama!!!during her time, that's when figure skating got excitement!!! look at now, a lot of people don't even watch skating. nobody's perfect, everyone who won olympics, worlds and nationals fell on their butts,plus a skaters greatness and being champion in the ice cannot be measured only by a 4 minute program and an olympic gold medal that is only given every 4 years!!!she's a legend. period.
well said,eClo, a lot of michelle kwan's haters keep on watching and watching her skating videos ha ha!! why? coz they can't stand to even watch whoever they idolized,skaters with no consistency at all. 9 time u.s. champ, 5 time world champ and 2 olympic medals, isn't that consistency? now, without michelle, u.s. female skaters can't even get to the podium. and abc 7 threw the skating coverage to ch.2 coz when michelle disappered,ratings went down the drain...!!!
Considering that some of you clearly dislike her,I find it amusing that you still take the time to watch a whole 10 minutes and 3 seconds all about her :|
Herm, I have viewed recent videos of Arakawa's skating and they are no longer flat as you have previously posted. Her skating had improved so much since her win because she had included new elements not seen in her award winning skate. I am not japanese, but I do admire japanese skaters including many from the US, and one from South Korea.
Sarah Hughes won the Gold Medal but faltered chasing the US title and World title. Michelle was more than just a great skater but a great champion with grace both on and off the ice. She conducted herself like a champion at all times. She is and always will be one of the best of all times period.
Very nice program but because of the double lutz at the end she should have been 3rd in the long behind Irina and Tara. Without the double lutz I would put her 1st in the long though.
I had stopped watching figure skating since Michelle hasn't been on tv. I cant wait for her return!
Even today's jumping and axels, no one skates as finesse as Michelle. She makes her audience focus, feel and cry. The only ones that cry in figure skating today are the skaters themselves, not the audience. These skaters suck!
She is never coming back. Sorry but everyones heroes get old and have to move on, and I dont know why you would love to see your old hero come back to finish 10th at Worlds or something anyway. If you only want to see one skater you arent a real fan of the sport anyway.
I love Michelle...But it's interesting how she made the same mistake in Nagano and Salt Lake that she did at the nationals in 1997. She skated scared, she skated not to loose...When she just skated and let it go she was much better off.
I just wanna know, who do you people think you are to critisize any skater, especially Michelle Kwan. Have you won the titles she has, or skate with her grace and beauty.
If you don't like her. why are you watching her videos?
Love this program if she did well in the short and not double the lutz in the long she would of beaten that rat girl (Tara). Then again whats with the change in of outfit I guess she thought it held bad luck. I always thought that was so odd.
Wishing to stay in eligible competition or to go to the Olympic Games is not egotistic. If so, then all athletes are. Michelle had to prove she was athletically ready after her injury and the judges found her so. However, she relinquished her position in Turino due to injury. It would have been easy for her to just try anyway, but she chose to hand off what would have been her last chance at Olympic Games to Emily Hughes. Michelle understands when to fight and when to act with maturity.
Why do some people like to bash Michelle? Michelle has never done anything to hurt anyone else. On the contrary. Throughout her career she has shown how "human" a person she is--to reveal your fears, failures, and frustrations is perhaps the greatest bravery of all. To all those Michelle bashers: would you risk your own 'face' for all the world to see and criticize? I surely doubt it.
Thank you. I like you for liking Michelle. My two little daughters really look up to Michelle. She's their inspiration--both in school and in skating. When they experience a setback, they say to me "Daddy, I'm going to do better and not give up, just like Michelle." And I always respond, "Good for you sweetie!" Michelle is a true lady--she has both strength of character and grace under pressure, unlike all her detractors who do nothing but whine and belittle.
Michelle was not only a great athlete on the ice, she was also a great artist. "Lawrence of Arabia" was a very good choice for evoking the oriental feel of Michelle's Taj Mahal program. Art is not made to fit into 'neat categories'. That belongs in the realm of science. A true artist is not afraid to use anything that can be imagined, to create something entirely different and beautiful. Michelle achieved that very effectively in this program.
What I admire most about Michelle Kwan was her perseverance throughout her stunning career. She was a fighter. Some skaters win gold then abruptly quit. It's like a 'slap in the face' for the fans who love them. Michelle never showed such disrespect. She pressed on, proving her mettle and pleasing her fans at the same time. For that,thanks Michelle. This is a 'textbook Kwan performance'--so 'gutsy' yet exquisitely beautiful. Thanks for posting this video!
This is an absolutely amazing program that Michelle did. It was a very clean and crisp program. I remember watching this night she did this beautiful program. I loved the music and her elegantly designed costume. I miss her so much!
I think to the lack of integrity of one level beats expectation. I am going to cry foul, unless people are going to learn how to figure on how to control their arrogant behavior while posting using you tube.I was expecting to see such cooperation with one another. Instead I find that some of these poster are nothing but a pack of irresponsible and ruthless bullies. Enough with the foolish hostility and learn how to grow up.
This is one very "spiffy" video. =p
lopezjackie515 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
This video went viral on Ljubljana
thadgiles513 2 months ago
@Amocktus the problem is that the new judging system makes us do so many combinations/hard jumps/specific revolutions on spins that you're too tired to do anything else. They give decimal points for everything-you can't even do fast footwork anymore.
jSwizzys 3 months ago
I still love to watch figure skating. However, there is no skater out there today who can fill her shoes. As far as I'm concerned, she's the best and always will be the best skater of all time.
jfastmover 4 months ago
Great fight in that program!
towright 5 months ago
Kwan sounds so slow, unarticulated, measured, and scripted. Takes her a million words to sound out a simple cliche in her attempt to pass off as philosophical.
allenglandlawns 8 months ago
Oh, TARA, TARA. Bothered by the fact that you weren't even good enough to compete at this competition? Maybe if you spent your time looking for a job, instead of spamming Kwan's videos using your infinite number of usernames, something productive would occupy your psyche and you wouldn't have all this bitterness toward the skating legend that you will never be like...
annief31 8 months ago
@annief31 What on earth are you babbling about? Tara WON this event. Creaming your overrated and arrogant Kwan. Tara will always be an Olympic CHAMPION while your Kween a two-time Olympic CHOKER.
allenglandlawns 2 months ago
@allenglandlawns Yes, Tara won this event because Michelle Kwan didn't skate well in the short program... Michelle won and deserved to win the LP at this event. Tara won the Olympics because Michelle didn't skate her best in the LP in Nagano... Michelle's best IS better than Tara's best...
Karosanyo 1 month ago
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OMG...getting up after being trampled? What on earth does SHE know? She stamped on so many skaters throughout her career, it's absolutely sickening to hear her give advice to others.
allenglandlawns 9 months ago
Well-deserved first place in the free skate. A stunning program with a beautiful 3-3.
idolfan9495 9 months ago 3
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Doubled a lutz and she still wins the free? Any other skater would have paid dearly for that. Tara gave her a heavy beatdown here despite every given possible break from the judges to give Kwan the title.
allenglandlawns 9 months ago
@allenglandlawns We can't hear you. The countless spontaneous standing ovations given to Michelle Kwan, even at practice sessions, drown you out.
JNagarya 9 months ago 9
@allenglandlawns Lu Chen doubled a lutz and only landed 5 triples and she won the world title two seasons prior...your point?
It's an overall performance...not a jump fest...
hrjr2009 9 months ago 2
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@hrjr2009 Well then, I am impressed with your insight on this particular matter. However, I still feel the judges tried hard to give her this title even though Tara completely blew her out of the water.
allenglandlawns 8 months ago
@allenglandlawns Weren't the judges split three/three/three?
RandomGuy4087 1 month ago
@hrjr2009 I clearly think that if getrealandsee wouldn't be posting all of these boorish nonsense, then I wouldn't be coming in either! Not to mention acquiring all of these additional screen name so she would be posting twisted hysterics. I am getting sick of seeing that insolent creature in here! Michelle Kwan clearly is a better figure skater from what I see in these videos! Getrealandsee croaks like a toad on acid. Incredible.
anne91276 3 months ago
How smooth her skate is...like on the clouds
DDOKU 10 months ago
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Ha! I must be doing a really good job bc everyone thinks I'm getrealandsee or some other names. This is very amusing and I enjoy watching Kwan defenders try to justify themselves and others. Please continue!
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns I really don't know or care if you're Getrealandsee... I just suspected it (the two of you have similar writing styles and views). Take care.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
Michelle won the long program with this skate. In other words, Lipinski won because Michelle faltered in the short, not because Tara out-skated her.
idolfan9495 1 year ago
@kwansansog Spoken by a "never was" how quaint! lol
Get a life troll!
Snooks8383 1 year ago
Admiring those who get up after being trampled? Michelle trampled over so many skaters in her career, it's ridiculous. Given a lot of titles, medals left and right with mediocre or crappy skates while REAL athletes, who were never given any breaks, literally have to break their backs to push the sport while this wannabe lapped up all the praise. She was never held at the same standards as her rivals and that's completely UNFAIR.
allenglandlawns 1 year ago
@allenglandlawns Michelle "trampled" over many skaters in her career? This statement is ludicrous. Please elaborate. Which titles and medals were given to her? Kwan earned ALL of her medals. This program above is a masterpiece of choreography. This performance was VASTLY superior to Tara's program (a very bland and dull program). I actually think that Michelle Kwan should have won the Gold medal here. Irina should have beaten Tara in the long and Michelle won and deserved to win the LP.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo Hi! Good to hear from you again. =) Of course I would love to explain my line of logic (even if you might disagree). I actually like most of Michelle's very pretty programs including this one. I just don't think it's suitable for high level athletics. If it was a beauty pageant-like ice show, than yes, she earned it! I don't like the way Michelle never pushed her ante like Tara did. So what if Tara skated the same programs over and over. Her programs were risky and athletic..continued
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns Michelle's programs were mostly very difficult (in terms of choreography and many triples). The choreography of this Taj Mahal program was very complex and difficult. The choreography in Tara's programs were always the same simple and safe fluff. Michelle's choreography, spins (her COE double Y spin and spinning in both directions was more difficult than any spin that Tara did), spiral, lines, extension, edging and footwork were better and difficult than Tara's same elements.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo Tara safe and simple? She skated faster and had faster and better spins (good leg on layback/low sit spins). Who cares if it's simple fluff? Skating isn't a beauty pageant or figure 8s anymore. It's an athletic contest and Tara PUSHED the sport forward in that direction. Kwan's difficult choreography? Is it THAT tiring to wave your arms and make facial expressions? Lots of triples? That's her way of compensating her lack of courage/skill of doing risky 3/3s. Tara also did 7 too.
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns No. Michelle's spins were better and more difficult. Nobody had a better sit spin than Kwan. I never liked Tara's layback (the bend in her back was mediocre). Tara truly skated the same program over and over (she wasn't versatile like Kwan). Michelle had footwork and a lot of transitions. Tara never took risks with her choreography. Michelle also had a lot more ice coverage than Tara. All is Michelle lacked was a more difficult 3/3, but doing 7 triples still isn't "safe".
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo OK, if you say is true about choreography, then this sport IS a beauty pageant that favors reputation over athletic merit. Tara risked it, pushed it like a champion and deserved all her wins. She's one of the few skaters who wasn't completely ripped off by Kwan's favoritism. Michelle's spins were more difficult? Layback sucked and sit spin was simple. Kwan stood on the shoulders of what others have done while Tara created new, inventive, and DIFFICULT moves.
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns Do you think that figure skating is all about jumps? Why should these skaters even have choreography in their programs? Choreography IS apart of figure skating. What new and inventive moves did Tara "create"? Kwan's layback "sucked"? I don't think so! The ones is her EOE SP and TRV were good and difficult (her EOE layback was INVENTIVE). Even her layback here was better than Tara's. How was Tara's sit spin more difficult? Michelle NEVER had favoritism at world level.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
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@Karosanyo You are absolutely right it's about the whole package and jumps are the most important elements and Tara had it all. She was a real athlete willing to push herself in all directions. She went to a ballet coach to improve her choreography and presentation. She worked and worked amid all the favoritism for a more popular but lesser skater and it paid off for her. Tara pioneered the 3loop/3loop something which NO woman attempts today and proved that risk/athleticism are key to winning.
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns I'll give Tara respect for doing the triple loop/ triple loop and her triple-triple sequence. I just feel that those were her only elements that she had (even if they were small). She knew that her artistry couldn't match Michelle's (Kwan's Lyra and Rach programs were masterpieces). I feel that everything is important in figure skating. Tara's jumps were so small and I hated her lutzes.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
She did improve her presentation (she had the same choreography), but she still wasn't a match for Michelle's. I don't understand these statements about Michelle having favoritism at world level skating. You must have her confused with Oksana Baiul (a HIGHLY mediocre skater who WAS gifted a World and Olympic title). You and I both know that you don't genuinely feel that Michelle was a lesser skater than Tara...
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo Mediocre? You must be kidding, or must be blind. Or you must be american and wanted woody-Kerrigan to win? I would LOVE Kwan to win gold, but dude, c'mon, Oksana Baiul, seriously? Have you even watched her? She is pure ART.
Porporinablu 5 months ago
@Porporinablu I must be blind or kidding? Ever hear about diverse opinions? This has NOTING to do with being "American". That's ignorant. Yes, I watched her and I found her to be technically medicore. She was always two footing her jumps and she could never do triple combos in the LP. Her spins and artistry were fine. Her Swan Lake SP is a masterpiece, but that's the only program of hers that I consider great. Wooden Nancy? Nancy landed 5 triples with a 3/3. She should have won the OGM.
Karosanyo 5 months ago
@allenglandlawns No one attempts the 3loop/3loop (which is difficult, sure) because it's likely at least one of the jumps will be under-rotated - the technology in 2010/2011 is far superior to 1997/98. Tara's jumps always looked perilously close to under-rotation. I really don't think Tara "had it all" but I will question whether Michelle Kwan would've continued in amateur ranks if she'd won OG in 1998.
muscleboi4use 10 months ago
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@Karosanyo Hey I have to take off right now but I hope to do this again with you soon. I truly enjoy our debates and completely respect the way you approach my opinions and the way you present yours. Take care :)
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns Likewise! We always have friendly and respectful debates.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo Don't be fooled. Allenglandlawns is the same person as getrealandsee, Ithinkformyself, kwansansog, cleareyed1 and probably other names. He/she/it has tried to take a more reasonable tone but still bombards Kwan videos with snarky comments about "simple" programs and "spoiling Emily's dream." She/he/it even responds to her own comments posted under the getrealandsee name, saying "I agree!" Good thing, because no one else does!
idolfan9495 11 months ago
@idolfan9495 I suspected that...
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo All you do, with you multiple accounts -- which is dishnest -- is spew hate. I think everyone here who objects to your disrupitve spam should bring your corruption to the powers that be here at youtube.
.
JNagarya 10 months ago
@JNagarya What the hell? Did you get me confused with Allenglandlawns? I love and defend Michelle's skating all of the time...
Karosanyo 10 months ago
@Karosanyo Don't encourage the spamming troll by engaging it. It doesn't debate; it simply spewsw hate behind a transparently thin veneer of lying about being "respectful" and the like. Michelle Kwan is the most decorated skater in US history because mycriad judges held so. And there is no comparison as concernsw standing ovactions; Kwan's were nearconstant, T(i)ara's extremely rare.
JNagarya 10 months ago
@allenglandlawns Michelle usually did seven to six triples in a program. How is this playing it safe? All is Tara had was her 3L-3L and her double axel sequence. Figure skating isn't just about the jumps. I prefer Michelle's jumps to Tara's. Michelle had much better height and her lutzes were more solid. Tara's jumps were so small! Tara never pushed her artistry like Michelle did (she skated the same program her whole career).
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns You're not sure if Michelle deserved the silver here??? This program put Tara's to shame! If the judges truly wanted Michelle to win they would have given Irina the scores that she deserved (Kwan won and deserved to win the LP and Irina should have came in second in the LP).
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo Tara skated great and I thought she deserved the free skate. She pushed it, did risky programs and it paid off in the overall result. Yeah her jumps were smallish, but she made up for it by risking failure, sheer athleticism, and succeeded by acing a skate no other woman in the competition would dare attempt (including Kwan). I guess you're right they didn't want Kwan to win because Tara was the one that rightfully DESERVED to win.
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
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Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo When it comes to overall prettiness, Michelle's programs very well presented. I agree with you that the Taj Mahal was gorgeously choreographed, (same with Lyra, rach, dod, eoe, trv, sobs, dariane, carmen). I just don't see it as true athletic programs that deserved wins over those that are. That's why I think Tara deserved the edge over Kwan in Olympic-style meets. All Kwan had over ANY true champion was the name/reputation. She has her merits but she really is just a mediocre skater
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns You actually think that Tara's choreography in her program (she only ever had ONE program) was better and more difficult than all of Michelle's programs? Yes, Michelle programs were pretty but they were also very difficult and innovative. All is Tara had over Michelle WAS her more difficult triple-triples. Tara would win over Michelle when Michelle didn't skate her best. Everything else about Michelle skating was better. Tara was truly mediocre and lucked out.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo No, he she it doesn't "think" anything of the kind. He she it is simply a hater who is viciously bitter against anyone who outdid the childish twit T(i)ara, and the consistnetly inconsistent Cohen. And then throws in anyone esle in effort to drag Kwan down to their level.
I am fed up withh the constant spaming by this dishonest multiple-account slime who isn't fit for human society, and shall bring the constant hate-spewing spammer to the attention of youtube. All should.
JNagarya 10 months ago
@Karosanyo ...and exuded pure happiness with her skating (how is that dull?). Kwan reused simple and SAFE programs her whole career and was given medals when other skaters who did risk it and pushed themselves to be better were shoved aside to satiate Kwan's love for attention, pity, and praise. Did she deserve the silver here? Maybe, maybe not. But I certainly thought she was given every break possible here to get the gold while Tara had to earn hers. That's just my take =)
allenglandlawns 11 months ago
@allenglandlawns I just can't stand Tara's little jumps (she barley lifts off of the ice). Her lutzes were so ugly and flutzed as well. Her spins, spiral and choreography were also mediocre. (she skated the same program for three years in a row). Figure skating isn't just about jumps to me. It should be about everything. Kwan's Taj Mahal was very complex and unique. She landed six perfect triples with a triple-triple. I find it very funny that your buddy complains about her winning the silver.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
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And with the splatfest at nats she shouldn't have even BEEN on the world team.
kwansansog 1 year ago
A triple to a double and she pulls up to silver?? Propped up again and her talking about people who are crushed and get up is disgusting. She had titles and medals handed to her on a silver platter.
kwansansog 1 year ago
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Karosanyo 1 year ago
@kwansansog No, these vindictive posts of yours are truly disgusting. Get over it! Michelle landed six perfect triples with a great triple triple. The choreography in this program was very difficult and brilliant. She was vastly superior to Tara in the LP. She won the LP and deserved it...
Karosanyo 1 year ago
@Karosanyo Nope:-)-) The gushing and swooning over Kwan is disgusting but also amusing at times. Kwan's defenders are determined and desperate for any excuse they can make for her. I saw one poster actually BLAMING Frank Carroll for Michelle's loss in Nagano. And it was a loss. Silver. Not Gold. Spin it any way you wish, and buy into Kwan's crap "I didn't lose the Gold, I won the Silver". Forget that she was sobbing, forget that there was an interview where she said:
kwansansog 1 year ago
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Karosanyo 1 year ago
@kwansansog Once again, these vindictive and slanderous posts are truly disgusting and sad. Just because YOU dislike the praising makes it "disgusting"? I always hated the praising of Oksana Baiul (I feel that she was truly a mediocre and propped up skater), but I am mature and confident enough to know that it's just their views. I'm not going around on her Youtube videos writing vindictive and slanderous posts over and over.
Karosanyo 1 year ago
@kwansansog Michelle was a class act both times on the Olympic podium after her losses (kissing and helping Tara and Sarah on the podium). Lol, of course Tara was going to be ecstatic after winning the OGM! Did you expect her to be sad or something? Chen Lu stated that she didn't even think that she was going to win a medal (her LP wasn't clean). Winning was a big surprise for her and she was happy after a difficult year and a half (many were writing her off as a has been).
Karosanyo 1 year ago
@kwansansog Michelle didn't expect them to give her that OGM. That statement is pure garbage and you know it. Once again, if they truly wanted her to win they would have made that happen (Like they did to Nancy Kerrigan in '94). Michelle stated that she did everything that she could (she won the short program and landed seven triples in the LP). Her heart was broken. After watching her own performance at those Games she stated that she wasn't free like she was at Nationals that same year.
Karosanyo 1 year ago
@kwansansog Pathetic ass loser relegated to bashing Kwan on youtube, wow! Mr./Ms. Big Stuff! LOL
Snooks8383 1 year ago
@Snooks8383 Michelle Kwan is the pathetic, pitiable loser, not I. The comments on here are really quite amusing. Tara won because Michelle blew the short program. DUH!
kwansansog 1 year ago
@kwansansog This is just more projection from you... Michelle Kwan was FAR from those accusations.
Karosanyo 11 months ago
@Karosanyo 'I have been known as a fighter and I can overcome this.' This being the silver that she won.
Tara and Lu Chen were so happy on the podium in Nagano and it showed. Lu Lu thrilled with her bronze medal and of course Tara utterly ecstatic with her Gold. And then there was Michelle Kwan. Sniveling, choking back tears, and covering the medal with her hands. She was SHOCKED that she wasn't handed the Olympic Gold medal just for staying on her feet. Safe, simple, silver.
kwansansog 1 year ago
@kwansansog Well, most of the Michelle Kwan detractors that I have debated with on this site state their OPINIONS as if they're FACT. Lol, "desperate"? No, I'm not the one that's been going around on Youtube for years stating the same repetition over and over. Some people even post under different usernames (now that's truly desperate). I don't want to generalize, though. I'm sure that now all of Michelle's non fans write these types of vindictive posts.
Karosanyo 1 year ago
@Karosanyo Well, it seems that you get so ruffled up and defensive when it comes to comments that don't fawn over Kwan. It's like she can do no wrong and the fact that others don't think the same way, you villify them. And no, I only have ONE username. When you think past all the prettiness in her skating and her supposed graciousness, you see that she cheated this sport. Considering your constant defending of her, I don't expect you to see at all.
allenglandlawns 1 year ago
@allenglandlawns Are you actually serious? That is another half-baked assumption. These off-the-cuff statements are are getting ludicrous. I disagreed with some of Michelle's choices that she made in her CAREER. Many of those posts by that individual are vindictive and slanderous (ignorant thories). If I see opinions that I disagree with, I'm going to counter them with my own views. Unlike you and some others on here, I can differentiate fact and opinion...
Karosanyo 1 year ago
@allenglandlawns I disagree with your opinion that Michelle cheated the sport. I think that's asinine. You disagree with me and I am fine with that. You and I have been over this time and time again. This will always be a divisive subject between us... Can YOU see this? Take care.
Karosanyo 1 year ago
@kwansansog If ignorance is indeed bliss, you must be on cloud 9. Rather obvious that you know little and see less. All these wannabe "experts" who really know squat about figure skating.
Snooks8383 1 year ago
@Snooks8383 Actually, I have both feet planted on the ground. These people aren't wannabe experts, they ARE experts. Kwan is the wannabe.
kwansansog 1 year ago
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Snooks8383 1 year ago
this routine was nice but I like the 1996 routine better.
37tonya 1 year ago
Despite the mistakes of this season, the two programs Michelle put on the ice were two of her absolute best. It's a shame she never repeated either Dream of Desdemona or Taj.
tolstoy67 1 year ago
I love a program that does not end with a spin like all seem to do these days.
dtdurr 1 year ago
Slutskaya was better in free programme
ond00000 1 year ago
The most consistent and emotionally satisfying skater I have ever had the privilege of watching. I miss her terribly.
mlc2005 1 year ago 12
I get goose bumps watching Michelle skates.
Kevinsf 1 year ago 2
Fikret Amirov's simphonic piece "Gyulistan Bayati Shiraz."
MsSFRLY 1 year ago
I love the dumbfounded look on Taras face until she noticed the camera on her.
dtdurr 1 year ago 6
It's sad that female skaters don't embrace creating characters on the ice as Michelle often did. Michelle created a story with costume, choice of music, moves, and just expression. I don't care what people about about the jumping beans of today. They lack the artistic passion that Michelle so often displayed. I miss her!
Amocktus 1 year ago 9
I think many skaters don't understand that many people like watching figure skating because it the most difficult kind of dance. so they should be dancers, not jumpers. I love kwans style- it's breathtaking
whirlpool1988 1 year ago 2
oh god i was 16 then.. where did time go!?
koolaidnhemlock 1 year ago 2
michelle is an amazing skater and i think that this is an amazing program in her skating career
rhythmicdreamer85 2 years ago
I really love Michelle's perspective here. It perfectly illustrates going from the Chaser to the Champion. And showing how difficult it is going from complete freedom to carrying the burden of expectation(from others but even more, yourself).
This program is OUTSTANDING!
And for the other US Ladies during her reign, her shadow shielded them from the pressure of outside expectation. Some took advantage while others were not able to.
Snooks8383 2 years ago 2
I always wonder how matchups of years past would do under the system of points now used in figure skating. Tara had far superior spins in terms of speed etc. Her jumps however had terrible edges and were very often underrotated. She would never get the credit for her triple triples as she did then.
But Michele skates much slower and does not have flexibility in her spins etc but her footwork, artistry and almost perfect jump technique would have consistently had her athe top I think
wackybrinyc29 2 years ago 3
The second section music (drums, etc. at about 6:45) is from Maurice Jarre's Lion of the Desert not from Laurence of Arabia
cman80 2 years ago
It's so sad you don't see this kind of music choice and interpretation anymore in ladies skating!
This is a jem!
RothdeMan 2 years ago 38
hmm hello sense, why taking Music from Lawrence of arabia and then call the LP Taj Mahal? But appart of this...very nice routine
SwissMan73 2 years ago
The fact the Michelle won 9 national championships and 5 world golds says it all!! No one, man or woman, had ever been a more complete skater.
markbob120 2 years ago 12
I love climat of this music :) one of her the best
Karolina917 2 years ago
sasha programs are also more about excitement where it will draw more younger kids attention. Without her loud and fast music, shes pretty much plain. While most kwan programs are more beautiful and classic
xoxovivixoxo 2 years ago
Since when is there an age cut off at the Olympics? I have never heard of that. Michelle can absolutely skate in 2010 if she decides to try.
No1ZmeskalFan 2 years ago
I like the interpretation for the music
I love Michelle Kwan
b2367 2 years ago 2
im doing a report on this person &stars;
xixlovexinuyashax 3 years ago
I know. I am just trying to be hopeful for Team USA. We have some graceful ladies, but none with the consistency of Kwan. We need "a fighter" like her.
*sigh*
aikaterina007 3 years ago 3
Come back Michelle! You are a star!
Though she is not my favourite I agree she is a lovely skater and more consistent than our current ladies skaters. One year 'til the Olympics!!!
aikaterina007 3 years ago 4
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ive never liked any of her long programs. always boring and slow n wierd music. actually sasha cohens are the only long routines ive actually ever found interesting and good entertainment along with grace and beauty.
dannyradar 3 years ago
why because she falls all the time? very exciting!
Egbert23 3 years ago 11
It's called elegance and drama. If you want entertainment, watch NASCAR.
DeejKelley 3 years ago 28
This comment has received too many negative votes show
drama? how is there drama? no real music change or dramatic instrumental moments no expression or dramatic arm movements. boring spins. yes its beautiful, but no presonality. just cardboard cutout routines. and why would i watch NASCAR for drama when i could just watch Sasha Cohens "Carmen" or "Malaguena". she even found a way to make "Swan Lake" dramatic.
dannyradar 3 years ago
@DeejKelley
i find this entertaining : )
koolaidnhemlock 1 year ago 2
And yet, you are here and not at a sasha video.
Surprise surprise! lol
Snooks8383 3 years ago 7
without sasha's fast loud music, she is pretty plain and boring. while kwan can skate to any kind of music. even though her tosco long program was emty, she still made that program one of the greatest ever skated at nationals. Sasha's loud music cover up her empty program. while kwan can skate with passion.
xoxovivixoxo 2 years ago 7
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Don't be deceived by poster Kristirulesice. She is the multiple-identity (huetboy27, hatula87, muffycat26, hairbrush81, aaprato3, aaprato4, aaprato5, etc.) YOUTUBE EMPLOYEE who acts as a troll and abuses her emoployee access by messing up the comments and accounts of people she disagrees with (for example, Kwan supporters) on figure-skating videos.
aaprato 3 years ago
I would have had the long program: 1)Michelle, 2)Irina, 3)Tara
kristirulesice 3 years ago 7
Yeah I agree... and based on those LP standings, Michelle would have won the title, with Tara 2nd and Irina 3rd.
uwoeric 3 years ago 6
Sounds about right to me.
kristirulesice 3 years ago
Shalom?!
waddleduckie1 3 years ago
The music is from Azerbaijan, where the overwhelming majority of people are Muslim, and the Taj Mahal is in fact a work of Muslim art. Saying she should have gone to Little India is somewhat faulty, because the current demographic of India shows a Hindu majority, not Muslim. The Mughal empire that built the Taj Mahal did not include Azerbaijan, but cultures move and travel over time, and in the end the Taj Mahal is more Muslim than it is Indian.
OnoSpin 3 years ago
for all you new skaters...see what fear can do.? But we all go through that stage in life.
cerdanM 3 years ago 3
not just skaters, in life. :)Perseverance! Putting life in a better perspective! :)
MichelleKwanForever 3 years ago
After watching Tara's LP again, I find the placements here very interesting, especially when compared to the placements in Nagano. Here Michelle had 6 triples including a 3-3. Her 3-3, however, was the easiest one. And she doubled her lutz. Tara's LP program had the same elements as in Nagano , yet it came in second here. In Nagano, Michelle skated a perfect program--no 3-3, but no doubled jump, either and it came in second to Tara's program.
skatefan9495 3 years ago
I don't know about the Olympics, but according to the specialists, they said they saw a more "mature" skate from Michelle than Tara here at the Worlds long program!
MichelleKwanForever 3 years ago 2
You are right, it is interesting. Some differences I would suggest:
1. Both were close 6-3 splits that could have gone either way. A matter of opinion. Remember Irina also took 3 1st place votes in the long program here also, so she took might have won the long at these worlds.
2. MK was reigning world champion here, advantage MK. Tara was reigning world champion in Nagano, advantage TL.
3. A triple-triple which Michelle did here might be valued more then a second triple lutz.
gayskatingfan 3 years ago 5
4. Tara was considered by some more advanced on the artistic side of skating by 98 then she was in 97.
5. Michelle skated after Tara here. At the olympics MK skated first and Tara drew near the end.
gayskatingfan 3 years ago 6
skatefan9495: Very interesting observation! I had never noticed that... I guess one could argue that this program was overmarked (due to Tara still being relatively new on the international arena), or Kwan being undermarked (b/c she skated early) at the olympics. All I know is that Kwan is one of the greatest ever.
mlc2005 2 years ago 6
I never was a big Tara fan but she skated some of the most technically challenging programs of a women ever with amazing consistency and the judges had to reward her for that . Of course I agree Kwan is the more complete skater but Tara also had good spins, basic skating, good presentation for her age and was a very strong overall skater too. All in all it was an amazing rivalry. It is a shame Tara did not stay longer. I think Tara's early retirement was largely responsible for Irina's rise.
grafgirl27 2 years ago
@grafgirl27 I don't think skating at a senior level for 2 (honestly, 1 3/4) seasons determines real "consistency." And she fell at the 98 Nationals. Her 3 loop 3 loop was amazing, but I don't think that should have earned her a gold medal. I think the skate order at the Olys helped her more than anything.
And yes, I totally agree that her departure made way for Irina. I think Tara could have developed some artistry had she stuck around. Irina never did, because the judges never made her.
thesupremediva 2 years ago 5
Agree 100%, well said
metsdudenj 3 years ago
And I'm dying to know what are these Indonesian elements you're arguing over. Please explain them to me.
I don't see the importance of a skating outfit having cultural auhenticity. These costumes are really designed to let the skater best maneuver across the ice while still being easy on the eyes.
sk8ingdreamer 3 years ago
But please my previous question. Are you Indian or even Indonesian? What are you exactly? I'm curious to know why this bothers you so much.
sk8ingdreamer 3 years ago
I know that program's choreography had same elements from the previous year's long program. It didn't bother me.
Maybe you've seen bindis everywhere you live, but I swear I haven't seen non-Indian strangers applying them on their foreheads where I live. Just Gwen Stefani on TV.
And those Indonesian elements didn't seem to bother any figure skating fans except you for the past 11 years.
And who cares about Little India. I've seen Indians with bindis above the center of their eyebrows.
sk8ingdreamer 3 years ago
remember, it wasn't michelle who choreographed this routine...she was only 16 here...she had not developed her own sense of self yet, or the need to nit-pick her programs, she was to just skate them..
TCAngel18 3 years ago
Well, I liked this program--the music, the choreography, & the outfit--and I do understand your opinion. Yeah, she picked another foreign, exotic theme, but YOU choose to believe it's almost identical from the year before.
& I don't think skaters really choose and arrange their own music with the short amount of time alloted. & I actually tried to search for "Taj Mahal" music, & it's not easy. A lot of Indian music is lyrical.
But by the way, are you Indian? It seem to bother you so much.
sk8ingdreamer 3 years ago
yup, figure skating needs the kwandrama!!!during her time, that's when figure skating got excitement!!! look at now, a lot of people don't even watch skating. nobody's perfect, everyone who won olympics, worlds and nationals fell on their butts,plus a skaters greatness and being champion in the ice cannot be measured only by a 4 minute program and an olympic gold medal that is only given every 4 years!!!she's a legend. period.
newvie08 4 years ago 3
i love the way her landing look here, so solid and great knee bend. great program... this is the best that she ever skated it. The ending is perfect!
tinymavy 4 years ago 2
well said,eClo, a lot of michelle kwan's haters keep on watching and watching her skating videos ha ha!! why? coz they can't stand to even watch whoever they idolized,skaters with no consistency at all. 9 time u.s. champ, 5 time world champ and 2 olympic medals, isn't that consistency? now, without michelle, u.s. female skaters can't even get to the podium. and abc 7 threw the skating coverage to ch.2 coz when michelle disappered,ratings went down the drain...!!!
newvie08 4 years ago 3
lol very funny, thanks for explaining
WORSTSINGEREVER 4 years ago
Considering that some of you clearly dislike her,I find it amusing that you still take the time to watch a whole 10 minutes and 3 seconds all about her :|
eClo 4 years ago
seriously, how could you hate michelle kwan? lol no one else comes close to her, plus she's so real and mature.
dbulcavage 4 years ago 4
She's the best ever...
Evigal 4 years ago
Herm, I have viewed recent videos of Arakawa's skating and they are no longer flat as you have previously posted. Her skating had improved so much since her win because she had included new elements not seen in her award winning skate. I am not japanese, but I do admire japanese skaters including many from the US, and one from South Korea.
waddleduckie1 4 years ago 4
Sarah Hughes won the Gold Medal but faltered chasing the US title and World title. Michelle was more than just a great skater but a great champion with grace both on and off the ice. She conducted herself like a champion at all times. She is and always will be one of the best of all times period.
singinshower 4 years ago 3
Very nice program but because of the double lutz at the end she should have been 3rd in the long behind Irina and Tara. Without the double lutz I would put her 1st in the long though.
tapecase72 4 years ago
I love how people try and slam Kwan for being consistent while skaters like Cohen & Slutskaya were so inconsistent. Boohoo!
I guess sloppy programs should always be rewarded over clean one's. What logic. lol
PaneruOG 4 years ago 2
I had stopped watching figure skating since Michelle hasn't been on tv. I cant wait for her return!
Even today's jumping and axels, no one skates as finesse as Michelle. She makes her audience focus, feel and cry. The only ones that cry in figure skating today are the skaters themselves, not the audience. These skaters suck!
I so miss Michelle Kwan. Pls come back!
delpa1986 4 years ago
She is never coming back. Sorry but everyones heroes get old and have to move on, and I dont know why you would love to see your old hero come back to finish 10th at Worlds or something anyway. If you only want to see one skater you arent a real fan of the sport anyway.
grafgirl27 4 years ago 12
I love Michelle...But it's interesting how she made the same mistake in Nagano and Salt Lake that she did at the nationals in 1997. She skated scared, she skated not to loose...When she just skated and let it go she was much better off.
rfillangi 4 years ago
I just wanna know, who do you people think you are to critisize any skater, especially Michelle Kwan. Have you won the titles she has, or skate with her grace and beauty.
If you don't like her. why are you watching her videos?
xotessieox 4 years ago
she is pretty and smart!
silen18 4 years ago
i love michelle!!
she skates beautifully and shes one of the best skaters ever!!
cdns94 4 years ago 2
Sorry, I messed up, it is Sunny Came Home by Shawn Colvin
taw1001 4 years ago
who knows? the name of the song, in the minutes 1:54 to 2:44, please who knows..............
miluskaodila 4 years ago
how old was she here?
deldelbellanonymous 4 years ago
I believe she was 16 here. She would have turned 17 later in the year
tiffshortie9 4 years ago
This is unbelievable!! All her jumps are incredible and perfect!!!! It's just incredible!!!!!!!!
NodameDeChiaki 4 years ago 2
i was gonna said that all her spins are perfect.
NodameDeChiaki 4 years ago 4
Love this program if she did well in the short and not double the lutz in the long she would of beaten that rat girl (Tara). Then again whats with the change in of outfit I guess she thought it held bad luck. I always thought that was so odd.
barbiedick144 4 years ago
Lovely. Shame she doubled the last Lutz but a beautiful program.
mk146hw 4 years ago
Wishing to stay in eligible competition or to go to the Olympic Games is not egotistic. If so, then all athletes are. Michelle had to prove she was athletically ready after her injury and the judges found her so. However, she relinquished her position in Turino due to injury. It would have been easy for her to just try anyway, but she chose to hand off what would have been her last chance at Olympic Games to Emily Hughes. Michelle understands when to fight and when to act with maturity.
Qwenton007 4 years ago 7
Why do some people like to bash Michelle? Michelle has never done anything to hurt anyone else. On the contrary. Throughout her career she has shown how "human" a person she is--to reveal your fears, failures, and frustrations is perhaps the greatest bravery of all. To all those Michelle bashers: would you risk your own 'face' for all the world to see and criticize? I surely doubt it.
mrshinyshoes 4 years ago 12
I like what you wrote.
towright 4 years ago 2
Thank you. I like you for liking Michelle. My two little daughters really look up to Michelle. She's their inspiration--both in school and in skating. When they experience a setback, they say to me "Daddy, I'm going to do better and not give up, just like Michelle." And I always respond, "Good for you sweetie!" Michelle is a true lady--she has both strength of character and grace under pressure, unlike all her detractors who do nothing but whine and belittle.
mrshinyshoes 4 years ago 9
Michelle was not only a great athlete on the ice, she was also a great artist. "Lawrence of Arabia" was a very good choice for evoking the oriental feel of Michelle's Taj Mahal program. Art is not made to fit into 'neat categories'. That belongs in the realm of science. A true artist is not afraid to use anything that can be imagined, to create something entirely different and beautiful. Michelle achieved that very effectively in this program.
mrshinyshoes 4 years ago 5
very nice choreographie and music...but what has Lawrence of Arabia to do with "Taj Mahal"...
SwissMan73 4 years ago
What I admire most about Michelle Kwan was her perseverance throughout her stunning career. She was a fighter. Some skaters win gold then abruptly quit. It's like a 'slap in the face' for the fans who love them. Michelle never showed such disrespect. She pressed on, proving her mettle and pleasing her fans at the same time. For that,thanks Michelle. This is a 'textbook Kwan performance'--so 'gutsy' yet exquisitely beautiful. Thanks for posting this video!
mrshinyshoes 4 years ago 5
Well said!
towright 4 years ago
This is an absolutely amazing program that Michelle did. It was a very clean and crisp program. I remember watching this night she did this beautiful program. I loved the music and her elegantly designed costume. I miss her so much!
rickram1961 4 years ago
I miss her a skater too. Knowone will ever be like her.
towright 4 years ago 2
After this second place finish at Nationals, MIchelle ran off 8 National titles in a row. That is an amazing accomplishment.
idolfan9495 4 years ago
I love this program. Michelle is the best. I can spend hours watching her videos and never fail to be inspired by her grace and artistry.
idolfan9495 4 years ago
I think to the lack of integrity of one level beats expectation. I am going to cry foul, unless people are going to learn how to figure on how to control their arrogant behavior while posting using you tube.I was expecting to see such cooperation with one another. Instead I find that some of these poster are nothing but a pack of irresponsible and ruthless bullies. Enough with the foolish hostility and learn how to grow up.
elisan693 4 years ago 2