The Rise of the Quad and the Future of Women’s Figure Skating
Adeliia Petrosian’s performance at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Games, despite falling on a quad toeloop, signals a pivotal moment in women’s figure skating. Her attempt – the only one in the event – highlights a growing trend: the increasing necessity of quadruple jumps for medal contention. This isn’t simply about technical difficulty; it’s a fundamental shift in the sport’s landscape.
The Quad Revolution: From Risk to Requirement
For years, women’s figure skating was characterized by artistry and precision in triple jumps. Now, the quad is rapidly becoming essential. Petrosian’s gamble, though unsuccessful in securing a podium finish, underscores this reality. As coach Tatyana Tarasova noted, attempting a quad is almost unavoidable when a skater possesses the capability.
This shift is driven by several factors. Increased competition demands higher base values for programs. Quadruple jumps offer a significant scoring advantage, and skaters are pushing boundaries to remain competitive. The technical panel’s scoring system rewards risk-taking, further incentivizing the inclusion of these challenging elements.
Neutral Athletes and the Shifting Geopolitics of Sport
Petrosian competed as an Individual Neutral Athlete (AIN) due to restrictions placed on Russian athletes following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. This situation highlights the complex intersection of sports and geopolitics. The AIN status, stripping away national representation, raises questions about the future of international competition and the role of athletes in times of political conflict.
The restrictions have significantly impacted the visibility of Russian skaters, who were previously dominant forces in the sport. Petrosian’s relative obscurity before the Games exemplifies this. Her performance, despite the fall, demonstrated the continued strength of Russian skating programs, even under these constraints.
The Eteri Tutberidze Factor: Controversy and Coaching Influence
The presence of Eteri Tutberidze, a highly influential but controversial coach, added another layer of complexity to Petrosian’s story. Tutberidze’s coaching methods, particularly her focus on quadruple jumps, have been both praised and criticized. Her former student, Kamila Valieva, was at the center of a doping scandal at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, bringing scrutiny to Tutberidze’s program.
Despite not being sanctioned for any wrongdoing related to the Valieva case, Tutberidze’s presence at the rink, even in a limited capacity due to IOC rules, sparked debate. Her influence on the sport remains undeniable, and her coaching philosophy continues to shape the training of elite skaters.
The Psychological Toll of High-Risk Skating
Petrosian’s visible disappointment after her fall, and her admission of feeling “ashamed,” reveals the immense pressure faced by elite athletes. The pursuit of technical perfection, particularly with high-risk elements like the quad, takes a significant psychological toll. The necessitate to land these jumps consistently, while maintaining artistry and performance quality, is a formidable challenge.
The risk of injury is too a major concern. Repeated attempts at quadruple jumps can lead to physical strain and potential setbacks. Skaters must balance the desire to push boundaries with the need to protect their long-term health and career.
FAQ
Q: What is an Individual Neutral Athlete (AIN)?
A: An AIN is an athlete allowed to compete in international competitions as an individual, without representing their country, due to restrictions imposed on their nation.
Q: Why is Eteri Tutberidze a controversial figure?
A: Tutberidze’s coaching methods have been scrutinized, particularly following the doping scandal involving her former student, Kamila Valieva.
Q: Is the quad jump now essential for women’s figure skating?
A: While not universally required yet, the increasing difficulty of competition suggests that attempting a quad is becoming increasingly necessary for medal contention.
Did you know? Adeliia Petrosian had only competed in one senior competition outside of Russia before the 2026 Olympics.
Pro Tip: Follow the International Skating Union (ISU) website for the latest rules and scoring updates in figure skating: https://www.isu.org/
What are your thoughts on the future of quadruple jumps in women’s figure skating? Share your opinions in the comments below!
