As the Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026 Games draw closer, few names in figure skating evoke more nostalgia and admiration than Yuna Kim. The Olympic gold medalist from Vancouver 2010 and silver medalist from Sochi 2014 remains a global icon. Her influence extends far beyond the rink. Now a respected ambassador and enduring presence in Olympic circles, Kim has expressed her excitement for the upcoming Games in Italy—a country she calls one of my favorites.
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Italy has always been a country I’ve loved, Kim said in a recent interview. The culture, the beauty, the passion for art and sport—it all resonates deeply with me. I’m truly looking forward to Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026.
A Lasting Legacy in Winter Olympic Figure Skating
Yuna Kim’s name is etched in the annals of Olympic and Winter Olympic figure skating history. Known for her elegant artistry, razor-sharp technique, and unshakable mental composure, she captivated the world during her competitive years. Her flawless free skate in Vancouver remains one of the highest-scoring programs in Olympic history, while her near-perfect performance in Sochi is still widely regarded as one of the sport’s greatest showings—even though she narrowly missed out on gold.
Her influence, however, transcends medals. Kim helped modernize women’s Winter Olympic figure skating, blending classical grace with technical innovation, and inspired a generation of athletes across Asia and beyond. For many young skaters, she became a symbol of what was possible—with both skates on the ice and a quiet confidence off of it. You Can Read End of an Era: Kaori Sakamoto’s Farewell to Winter Olympic Figure Skating
Winter Olympic Figure Skating Global Growth and Kim’s Role
Since her retirement, Kim has remained involved in the sport as a mentor, performer, and advocate. She has served as an ambassador for various youth sports initiatives in South Korea and partnered with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to promote Winter Olympic figure skating around the globe. Her visibility has been especially impactful in countries where winter sports are still developing.
Seeing more diversity in Winter Olympic figure skating is something I’m very proud of,” Kim said. I know what it feels like to come from a country where this wasn’t always a tradition. To see more Asian athletes, African skaters, and kids from all over the world embracing the sport is beautiful. Her continued presence at Winter Olympic figure skating events, including the World Championships and Grand Prix Finals, is a testament to her commitment to the sport. Even in retirement, Kim’s voice carries weight, and her opinion is highly respected among athletes, coaches, and fans.
A Special Connection with Italy
Yuna Kim’s affection for Italy is well documented. She has trained and performed there, participated in exhibitions, and often spoken about her admiration for Italian culture and the country’s rich artistic heritage. Italy’s deep appreciation for Winter Olympic figure skating and performance art aligns with Kim’s own stylistic sensibilities.
Skating in Italy has always felt special, she shared. There’s a warmth in the audience, a connection that’s hard to describe. They understand not just the technical side of skating, but the emotion behind it. Her connection with Italy also includes fond memories of past competitions and friendships with skaters like Carolina Kostner, one of Italy’s most accomplished figure skaters and a contemporary of Kim’s during her competitive peak.
Mentoring the Next Generation in Winter Olympic Figure Skating
As preparations for Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026 intensify, Kim is already playing a role behind the scenes. She has served as a role model and informal mentor to rising Korean stars like You Young and Kim Chae-yeon, who are vying to represent South Korea at the Games. Her presence, even at a distance, provides reassurance to skaters navigating the pressure-filled road to Olympic qualification.
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I talk to younger skaters about balance, Kim said. Not just in their programs, but in their lives. It’s important to stay grounded, to keep perspective, and to remember why you fell in love with skating in the first place. With her keen eye for choreography, attention to musical detail, and experience managing Olympic expectations, Kim’s insight has become invaluable in helping others reach their peak.
Olympic Figure Skating at Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026: What to Watch
The Olympic figure skating competition at the Winter Olympic 2026 is shaping up to be a showcase of global talent. Young stars like Japan’s Hana Yoshida, Korea’s You Young, and America’s Isabeau Levito are poised to challenge for the podium. In the men’s field, veterans like Yuma Kagiyama and Ilia Malinin are expected to headline what could be one of the most technically advanced competitions in Olympic history.
Italy’s home crowd will have their eyes on local favorites, while pairs and ice dance categories continue to evolve with creative risks and boundary-pushing routines. Yuna Kim, though no longer competing, is expect to attend the Games in an honorary or ambassadorial role—her presence alone adding to the weight of the moment.
A Broader Olympic Mission
In recent years, Kim has also become more active in Olympic diplomacy and youth advocacy. As an IOC member and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she uses her platform to champion education, mental health awareness, and sports access for underprivileged youth.
Sport changed my life, Kim said. I believe it can change the world. That’s why I continue to support the Olympic movement—not just for the competition, but for the values behind it. Her outlook on life after elite competition is refreshing. In a world where many athletes struggle to transition, she has found purpose. Kim has managed to evolve while staying deeply connected to Winter Olympic figure skating. This has allowed her to remain both relevant and impactful.
Olympic Figure Skating: Yuna Kim’s Enduring Legacy as Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026 Nears
As the countdown to Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026 continues, Yuna Kim’s role will be that of mentor, ambassador, and perhaps commentator. But to millions of fans, she will always be Queen Yuna —the skater who redefined elegance and strength.
She has nothing left to prove, yet continues to inspire. Her words about Italy, the Olympics, and the next generation of skaters reflect her deep-rooted love for a sport that still defines her in the eyes of the world. I’m just excited to be there, she smiled. To celebrate the athletes, to cheer for the skaters, and to see what new memories the Winter Olympic will bring. And yes—I’ll be eating a lot of gelato.
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