In a momentous event at the World Figure Skating Championships held in Prague, Czechia, Japanese sensation Kaori Sakamoto brought her distinguished competitive journey to a dazzling close, clinching her fourth world title in the women's singles discipline. This remarkable victory not only capped her career but also etched her name into the annals of figure skating history as the first female single skater since Michelle Kwan in 2003 to achieve four world championship triumphs. Sakamoto's swansong performance, an emotionally charged free skate at the O2 Arena, earned her a personal best of 238.28 points, adding to a career adorned with four Olympic medals, including two silvers from the recent Milan Cortina Games.
Sakamoto's Historic Victory at the 2026 World Championships
On a memorable Friday, March 27, 2026, in the vibrant city of Prague, Czechia, Japanese figure skating icon Kaori Sakamoto, at the age of 25, gracefully concluded her competitive career by seizing her fourth women's singles world title. Her final performance at the prestigious Figure Skating World Championships was nothing short of spectacular, featuring an emotional free skate that secured her a personal best score of 238.28. This monumental achievement placed her significantly ahead of her compatriot, Mone Chiba, who finished second with 228.47 points, and Belgium's Nina Pinzarrone, a surprising bronze medalist with 215.20 points. Sakamoto's career, highlighted by four Olympic medals, including two silvers from the Milan Cortina Games, now boasts an unparalleled feat: she is the first woman since Michelle Kwan in 2003 to claim four world championships.
Sakamoto's final competitive outing was a testament to her enduring skill, artistry, and resilience. Her dominance in the sport has been a source of inspiration, showcasing the pinnacle of dedication and grace. Her departure leaves a void in the competitive landscape but her legacy, marked by consistent excellence and historic achievements, will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of skaters. The championships also featured the rhythm dance segment of the ice dance competition, where French Olympic champions Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron took a commanding lead with a personal-best score of 92.74, positioning themselves strongly for the free dance.
