From the Brink of Retirement to Olympic Gold: The Inspiring Journey of Rikuryu
Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara’s stunning victory at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics wasn’t just a gold medal for Japan in pairs figure skating; it was a testament to perseverance, a second chance, and the power of a fateful encounter. Their journey, marked by injury, doubt, and a dramatic comeback from fifth place after the short program, captivated audiences worldwide.
A Career on the Edge
Just seven years ago, Kihara was contemplating leaving the sport altogether. A two-time Olympian (Sochi 2014, PyeongChang 2018), he was battling shoulder injuries and concussions. Following the dissolution of his previous partnership with Miu Suzaki in the spring of 2019, he took a job at the front desk of a local rink, Howa Sports and Culture, in Aichi Prefecture, unsure of his future.
The Unexpected Opportunity
Whereas working part-time, earning the same wage as university students, Kihara found himself assisting at a pairs tryout organized by the Japan Skating Federation at Chukyo University in June 2019. It was there, almost by accident, that he was paired with Riku Miura. Coach Bruno Marcotte, observing their initial practice, witnessed a pivotal moment during a twist lift – Miura’s unexpected height and flawless execution prompted an instinctive exclamation of amazement.
A Meteoric Rise
The partnership blossomed quickly. Kihara marveled at Miura’s trust and fearlessness, a crucial element in the demanding world of pairs skating. They moved to Canada to train with Marcotte, and their ascent was rapid. They achieved a seventh-place finish at the 2022 Beijing Olympics – a Japanese pairs best – and followed it up with World Championship titles in 2023 and 2025.
Redemption in Milan
Despite their success, the Olympic final wasn’t without drama. A rare mistake in the short program left them in fifth place, a position they hadn’t experienced in some time. Kihara was visibly disheartened, but Miura remained focused, urging them to reset and believe in their abilities. Their subsequent free skate, a world-record-setting performance, was a display of power, precision, and unwavering determination.
The Power of a Second Chance
Kihara, reflecting on his journey, expressed gratitude for the opportunity he was given. Holding the gold medal, he simply stated, “I’m so glad I didn’t give up.” Their story is a powerful reminder that even when facing setbacks and uncertainty, perseverance and a willingness to embrace new opportunities can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Did you know?
Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara’s gold medal is Japan’s first-ever Olympic medal in pairs figure skating.
FAQ
What led to Kihara considering retirement?
Kihara was struggling with shoulder injuries and concussions and had recently ended a previous partnership.
How did Miura and Kihara first get paired together?
They were paired together almost by chance at a pairs tryout organized by the Japan Skating Federation, with coach Bruno Marcotte observing their potential.
What was the key moment that convinced Kihara to continue skating with Miura?
A successful twist lift during their first practice together, where Miura’s height and execution impressed both Kihara and coach Marcotte.
What was their result in the short program?
They finished in fifth place after a mistake during a lift.
Pro Tip
Don’t underestimate the power of resilience. Even the most accomplished athletes face setbacks. The ability to learn from mistakes and maintain a positive mindset is crucial for success.
Aim for to learn more about the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics? Visit the official Olympics website.
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