Japanese Skaters Nakai and Sakamoto Stun US Rivals in Olympic Short Program
In a dramatic turn of events at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, Japanese figure skaters Ami Nakai and Kaori Sakamoto delivered a stunning performance to seize the lead after the women's short program. The duo upstaged the highly touted American team, known as the 'Blade Angels,' which includes star skater Alysa Liu.
Unexpected Lead for Japan
The competition, held on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, saw Nakai and Sakamoto execute flawless routines that captivated judges and audiences alike. Their technical precision and artistic expression earned them top scores, placing them ahead of the US contenders in the early standings. This result marks a significant upset, as the American skaters were widely favored to dominate the event.
AP Photo Gallery Highlights
The Associated Press has curated a photo gallery showcasing key moments from the short program, featuring 14 images that capture the intensity and grace of the performances. These photos provide a visual narrative of how Nakai and Sakamoto managed to outperform their rivals, highlighting their poise and skill on the ice.
For more coverage of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, visit the AP's dedicated hub online. The women's figure skating competition continues to be a focal point, with fans eagerly anticipating the free skate segment to see if Japan can maintain their lead.
