The world of competitive figure skating continues to grapple with the fallout from a doping scandal that overshadowed the 2022 Beijing Olympics, as well as questions about the age and development of elite athletes. Recent competition has seen the return of skater Kamila Valieva, nearly four years after a positive drug test came to light during the Games.
A Tumultuous Beijing Olympics
During the 2022 Beijing Olympics, a then-15-year-old Valieva tested positive for trimetazidine, a banned heart medication. Despite the ongoing investigation, she was permitted to continue competing. However, her performance faltered, and she was reportedly berated by her coach following her long program. The Russian team’s gold medal was later forfeited, elevating the United States to the top spot.
The aftermath of the Olympics saw Russia excluded from international competition following the invasion of Ukraine. In their absence, another skater, Liu, secured a bronze medal at the world championship before retiring at the age of sixteen. A prevailing sentiment among fans suggested that some skaters trained by coach Tutberidze had a limited competitive lifespan, potentially ending around age seventeen.
The Demands of the Sport
The sport has historically favored younger competitors. In recent decades, the abandonment of compulsory figures and the increasing difficulty of jumps have contributed to this trend. Tara Lipinski won Olympic gold at fifteen years old in 1998, and Sarah Hughes won in 2002 at sixteen.
Physical factors also play a role, as smaller, lighter bodies are better suited for the demands of spinning, and jumping. However, the intense commitment and discipline required to master these skills are often easier to instill in children. As coach Rafael Arutyunyan stated, “You should get ready for war before war started.” He further explained that coaching women differs from coaching “junior ladies skaters,” suggesting a critical period for development.
The experience of skater Liu illustrates the pressures faced by young athletes. Beginning skating at age five, her career was heavily managed by her father, with strict control over all aspects of her life. After retiring, she briefly returned to the sport, but only on her own terms, taking control of her training, choreography, and music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the 2022 Beijing Olympics regarding Kamila Valieva?
Kamila Valieva tested positive for a banned heart medication during the 2022 Beijing Olympics, but was allowed to continue to compete. She ultimately fell apart during her long program and was berated by her coach. The Russian team later forfeited their gold medal.
Why has figure skating historically favored younger athletes?
Smaller, lighter bodies are better suited for the physical demands of the sport, and the intense commitment and discipline required are often easier to instill in children. The sport has also evolved to prioritize difficult jumps, which are easier to master at a younger age.
What did skater Liu do after initially retiring from competition?
After retiring, Liu hiked to the Mt. Everest base camp and attended U.C.L.A. She later decided to return to skating, but only on her own terms, taking control of all aspects of her training.
As Valieva and other skaters return to competition, it remains to be seen how the sport will address the challenges of athlete welfare and the pressures of elite performance.
