Kaori Sakamoto & Her Empowering Figure Skating Routine

To those who do not live under a rock, you would be aware that the 25th Olympic Winter Games have just concluded, which occurred in the major city of Beijing. Through triumphs, obstacles, and defeats, the Olympic Movement has developed one main objective; to promote sportsmanship and a sense of solidarity amongst nations. Beyond that, athletics is one of our world’s most useful tools in promoting equality amongst all races and genders. The International Olympics Committee (IOC) is constantly trying to push for initiatives giving women around the world better access to play sports and wants above all to edge the 50/50 balance of female athletes and male athletes who enter the games. After all, such a highly broadcasted event is the perfect opportunity to encourage equal opportunities regardless of your identity.

While tuning into various events in the past few weeks, my attention was above all geared towards women's figure skating. Some of the “Top Stories” on our news channels involved the doping scandal of young Russian athlete Kamila Valieva, which seemed to overshadow the performances of extremely talented figure skaters. My personal favorite was by far the routine from the Japanese Kaori Sakamoto, who perfectly displayed the intended message of her piece, which was to celebrate the power of women. The brilliant choreography from the French Benoit Richaud, paired with the song “No More Fight Left in Me” by Imany, marvelously exhibited the strength and resiliency women hold. Although maybe not as high in technical difficulty as her competitors from the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), her routine was performed with such grace and strength, ultimately granting her a well-deserved bronze medal.

Beyond the podium, Sakamoto demonstrated true sportsmanship and kindness to her other competitors, a true example of what the Olympic games are all about. Succeeding the event, she took it upon herself to comfort the gold medalist Anna Shcherbakova, who was completely disregarded and left sitting alone as drama unfolded amongst her teammates. The Japanese skater was the only medalist who was displaying genuine content with her results, and her positive attitude somewhat alleviated the gloominess surrounding the Ladies’ figure skating event. She showed true camaraderie throughout the Olympic games, and her women empowering routine will be one many won’t forget.

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Contributors: Charlotte Swane