23/04/2026
Ami Nakai delivered one of the standout surprises at the 2026 Winter Olympics, taking the lead after the short program.
Her skate was clean and controlled, earning her first place (~78.7) ahead of more experienced rivals:
🥇 Ami Nakai — ~78.7
🥈 Kaori Sakamoto — ~77.2
🥉 Mone Chiba
Her performance stood out for its clarity and composure:
• clean elements without visible errors
• solid technical base
• smooth transitions and controlled ex*****on
• calm, confident presence without unnecessary dramatics
This allowed her to edge past Kaori Sakamoto, one of the pre-event favorites.
What this means
• Japan claimed all top three spots in the short program
• Nakai emerged as a serious contender for gold
• a clear shift from promising talent to elite-level competitor — on the Olympic stage
Her free skate will ultimately decide the outcome, but after this short program, Ami Nakai has already made a strong impression in Milano–Cortina.
Ami Nakai is a Japanese figure skater and one of the emerging names in women’s singles. She is known for her light skating style, precise technique, and strong musical interpretation, representing a new wave of Japanese athletes.
She first gained international recognition in junior competitions, consistently delivering accurate programs with strong technical fundamentals. Her skating blends fluid movement, soft edges, and controlled jumps, creating performances that are both elegant and technically refined.
As she moves into senior-level events, Nakai is seen as a promising athlete capable of competing for top positions at major competitions, including the Winter Olympics and ISU championships.
Profile
• Full name: Ami Nakai
• Nationality: Japanese
• Sport: Figure skating
• Discipline: Women’s singles
• Known for: Clean technique and musicality
• Level: Transitioning from junior to senior
• Strength: Consistency and artistry
ShortProgram OlympicIce RoadToGold