A composed mind under a heavy crown

On Thursday, 16 January, the first day of figure skating competitions at the Torino 2025 FISU World University Games, the short programme of the men’s single skating took place at the Palavela arena, and all eyes were on Japanese star Yuma Kagiyama.

The 21-year-old, who captured silver in the event at the Beijing 2022 Olympics, delivered a stunning performance, earning 106.82 points, his season-best score. Here in Torino, he holds a commanding 10-point lead heading into the free skating final, which goes Saturday, 18 January.

Two-time Olympic medallist

Three winters ago, Kagiyama tallied a total of 310.05 points in his Olympics single debut in China. In the team competition, his free skate score of 208.94 contributed to Japan’s bronze medal.

Reflecting on his achievements, Yuma Kagiyama remains remarkably humble. “For me, I always approach competitions with the mindset of staying true to my roots. I don’t let the fact that I’m an Olympic medallist make me feel proud or complacent. That’s always been my attitude. Even for today’s competition, past honours don’t weigh on me — I stay calm and focused.”

This grounded mindset has propelled the Chukyo University student to more international success since the Beijing Olympics. He earned a silver medal at the 2024 World Championships, bronze at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final and, most recently, gold at the 2024–25 ISU Grand Prix in Helsinki. In December, he claimed his first-ever All-Japan Championship title.

How to wear the heavy crown

“Before winning the All-Japan Championship, I felt anxious because of societal pressure. That was the hardest part. But after becoming the champion, I no longer felt pushed by external expectations, and I’ve grown more confident,” Kagiyama shared.

However, he is keenly aware of the responsibility that comes with his success. “Becoming the champion has made me realise the importance of living up to that title. I want to perform in a way that matches my status.”

Kagiyama’s All-Japan victory was a particularly emotional moment for his father and full-time coach, Masakazu, who was brought to tears as his son performed a difficult quad flip during the free skate. This time, however, due to a leg injury, he was not on site to support his son. In Torino, Yuma is being guided by former Italian figure skating star Carolina Kostner, the 2012 world champion and 2014 Olympic bronze medallist.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Carolina. She has helped me grow so much,” Kagiyama said. Despite his father’s absence, the young ice skating superstar still feels his influence strongly. “I feel like I have two coaches taking care of me. Even though my father couldn’t be here, I carry his teachings with me into every competition. Both of them have taught me so much, and I’m very thankful.”

A composed samurai

On and off the ice, Kagiyama is known for his calm and composed demeanour, which he attributes to his years of experience and mental preparation. “In figure skating, experience and mental resilience are incredibly important. Up to now, whether I’ve felt regret or joy, I’ve learned to process those emotions and focus entirely on the present. The moment you’re in right now is always the most important.”

With his unshakable focus, humility and elegance, Kagiyama continues to be a shining example of grace under pressure. Supported by his father’s expectations back home in Japan and the guidance of his Italian coach, he remains committed to his journey as a skater.

“Arigatou gozaimasu (thank you very much),” Kagiyama said with a slight bow as he concluded his post-event interview, once again displaying his humble nature.

The take place from 13-23 January. Watch all the competitions live on . Click on the link to find the full schedule.

Written by Boyi Yang, FISU Young Reporter, China

The Young Reporters Programme exemplifies FISU’s commitment to more than sports competitions. At every FISU World University Games, a group of talented aspiring sports journalists are chosen to cover the competition.

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