He has every reason to call himself the “quad god”. When Ilia Malinin jumps, he makes even the most difficult ones, such as those with four rotations, look easy. In 2023 the American made ice skating history when Malinin, then 17 years old, was the first person to execute a quadruple axle successfully in a competition. Today he is still the only skater to have performed this element that was previously deemed impossible.
Thanks to his speed, his powerful jumps and his entertainment abilities, he achieved the desired result. The last time Malinin was defeated was in 2023, when he came second at the Grand Prix de France. Naturally, he is regarded as the hands-down favourite for Olympic gold.
This exceptional talent was virtually born to be a skater because both his parents were ice skaters and are today part of his coaching team. In February, the double World Champion will demonstrate his skills at Art on Ice for the fourth time. Fans of Art on Ice can look forward to experiencing the 20-year-old wonder jumper live on the tour again.