Ilia Malinin failed to live up to sky-high expectations in the men’s free skate competition on Friday night, suffering two falls during his routine.
The American figure skater entered the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics as the overwhelming favorite to claim gold in the event, but ultimately recorded a disappointing eighth-place finish.
Malinin was visually emotional after his free-skate meltdown. And on Saturday, the 21-year-old Olympic star postponed his scheduled media appearance.
Malinin was spotted again on Sunday, making a surprise appearance at an additional practice at the Milano Ice Skating Arena.
Malinin doesn’t have any remaining competitive events, but many view this practice appearance as an indication he’ll participate in the Milano Cortina Exhibition Gala next weekend.
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“Definitely doing the gala, I expected it. I am also sure he is gonna show up at worlds and destroy everyone,” one fan wrote in reaction to Malinin’s appearance.
“Full respect to him. Mentally, even just showing up to training after a skate like that is far from easy. Hoping he’s feeling a little better and supported through this,” another said.
“There’s no way he’s not doing the gala,” another added.
USA Today reporter Christine Brennan confirmed that Malinin will in fact perform in next Saturday’s gala. He will also compete in next month’s world championships in Prague.
“lia Malinin will skate in the Olympic exhibition gala with top medalists Saturday. He also has decided to compete at the world championships next month in Prague. He is the two-time defending world champion,” Brennan reported.
It is very unusual for an eighth-place finisher to perform in the Exhibition Gala, but Malinin’s popularity as the “Quad God” led organizers to include him in an event that typically features podium finishers.
The Exhibition Gala will take place on Saturday, Feb. 21.
