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Malinin's 'Phoenix' Program: A Resilient Artistic Statement

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 14:47 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, JAPAN

Milan, Italy - February 21st, 2026 - The 2026 Winter Olympics continued to captivate audiences tonight with the figure skating gala, a dazzling exhibition of skill and artistry held after the fiercely contested competition rounds. The gala, held at the magnificent Mediolanum Forum in Milan, provided a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere for skaters to showcase their creativity and connect with fans. American stars Ilia Malinin and Alysa Liu were among the headliners, delivering performances that highlighted not just their technical prowess, but their artistic evolution.

Unlike the short program and free skate which demand precise execution of specific elements under stringent judging criteria, the gala is about expression. Skaters choose their own music, design their own choreography, and aim to entertain. This freedom allows them to reveal facets of their personality and skating style rarely seen in competition. Tonight's event was a testament to that, with programs ranging from classical ballet-inspired routines to contemporary interpretations set to popular music.

Malinin's Bold Statement:

Ilia Malinin, the 22-year-old sensation who narrowly missed a medal in the individual competition due to a slight stumble on a quad Axel attempt, clearly used the gala as a platform to demonstrate his resilience and artistic growth. He skated to a remix of orchestral pieces intertwined with modern electronic beats - a surprisingly effective combination. His program, titled "Phoenix," was a visual narrative of overcoming adversity. Malinin didn't shy away from including the quad Axel, landing it cleanly on his second attempt to thunderous applause. However, the emphasis was not solely on technical difficulty. The choreography incorporated intricate footwork, graceful transitions, and emotive gestures, showcasing a maturation beyond his reputation as a 'jump specialist.' Analysts noted a marked improvement in his skating skills - the quality of his edges, the fluidity of his movement, and his ability to connect with the audience.

"I wanted to show everyone that even when you fall, you can rise again," Malinin stated in a post-performance interview. "The competition was tough, and I wasn't perfect, but I learned from it. This program is about pushing boundaries, both technically and artistically."

Liu's Elegant Return:

Alysa Liu, the 21-year-old known for her captivating artistry and expressive skating, delivered a performance that resonated deeply with the audience. Following a strong but ultimately fourth-place finish in the individual event, Liu opted for a poignant and emotionally charged program. Skating to a haunting rendition of Debussy's Clair de Lune, she embodied vulnerability and grace. While foregoing any quads in her program, Liu focused on flawless triple jumps, intricate spins, and captivating choreography. Her performance wasn't about pushing technical limits but about delivering a deeply moving artistic interpretation. Several commentators observed that Liu seemed to be rediscovering her joy for the sport after a period of intense pressure.

"I really wanted to skate something that felt authentic to me," Liu explained. "I've been working on connecting more with the music and letting my emotions show. It's easy to get caught up in the technical aspects, but tonight, it was all about sharing a feeling."

The Gala's Significance:

The Olympic figure skating gala is more than just an after-party; it's a vital component of the Games. It allows the world to see the skaters as artists, not just athletes. It fosters a deeper appreciation for the sport and inspires future generations of skaters. It's also an opportunity for skaters to show gratitude to their fans and celebrate their accomplishments. The gala also offers a unique chance to see collaborations between skaters and choreographers, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the ice.

Tonight's gala featured performances from skaters representing a diverse range of nations, showcasing the global appeal of figure skating. The event concluded with all the skaters taking a final bow, a heartwarming display of sportsmanship and camaraderie. As the lights dimmed on the Mediolanum Forum, one thing was clear: the 2026 Winter Olympics figure skating gala was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on both the performers and the audience.