yuzuru hanyu biography

Yuzuru Hanyu at the Olympics: Everything to know about Japanese figure skater at Beijing Games

• Hanyu is a five-time national champion, three-time world champion and two-time Olympic champion.
• He returns to the ice in Beijing after an injury that has kept him away from competition this winter.
• Hanyu can perform four different quadruple jumps and has set his sights on becoming the first person to land a quadruple Axel in competition.

Yuzuru Hanyu of Japan is the two-time defending champion in Olympic men's figure skating, winning gold medals in Sochi (2014) and Pyeongchang (2018) . 

A five-time national champion and three-time world champion, he is considered one of the greatest male figure skaters in history.

However, the odds are against him in his quest to win his third Olympic gold in Beijing after a skating season beset by injuries. Hanyu suffered a sprained ligament in his right ankle from a fall in practice on Nov. 9, and did not compete in any of the Grand Prix figure skating events this fall. (The last one, the Dec. 9-12 Grand Prix Final, was canceled due to COVID concerns.)

However, Hanyu shouldn't be counted out by any means. In 2018, he was injured and out of action for four months before the Pyeonchang Games, but came back to repeat as Olympic champion.

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Who is Yuzuru Hanyu? 

Hanyu is a Japanese figure skater. He has won gold in the men's figure skating competition each of the past two Olympic Games. He has also won two golds, three silvers and two bronzes at the World Figure Skating Championships.

How old is Yuzuru Hanyu?

Hanyu was born on December 7, 1994, and is currently 27 years old. He started skating competitively as a novice in 2004. At 13, he was the youngest male skater to win the Japan Junior Championship.

How tall is Yuzuru Hanyu? 

Hanyu is 5 feet, 7 1/2 inches.

Where is Yuzuru Hanyu from? 

He was born in Sendai, Japan. His father is a junior high school teacher and his mother worked as a department store clerk.

Where does Yuzuru Hanyu live? 

Hanyu lives and trains in Toronto, Canada. However, he has remained at home in Japan during the coronavirus pandemic.

What is Yuzuru Hanyu's signature move? 

Hanyu is known for both his athleticism and his artistry. He is also an innovator and risk-taker on the ice. He is the first figure skater to land a quadruple toe loop successfully in competition, which he did in 2016 in Montreal. He can also perform three other quadruple jumps and has set his sights on becoming the first person to land a quadruple Axel in competition.

In the Japanese national championships in December, Hanyu attempted a quadruple Axel for the first time in his free skate program, but two-footed the landing. Although the jump was downgraded to a triple Axel, Hanyu still easily won his sixth Japanese title.

When will Yuzuru Hanyu compete in Beijing? 

The men's figure skating competition will take place Feb. 8-10 at the Capital Indoor Stadium in Beijing. The men's short program will be on Feb. 8, with the men's free skate on Feb. 10.

How many gold medals does Yuzuru Hanyu have? 

Hanyu has two Olympic gold medals from the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia, and the 2018 Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

He also has two gold medals from his victories in the 2014 and 2017 World Championships. In addition, he has won four Grand Prix Final golds and one each from the Four Continents Championships, World Junior Championships, World Team Trophy and Junior Grand Prix Final.

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Last updated: Dec 15, 2023

Yuzuru Hanyu Bio And Facts

Table of Contents

Yuzuru hanyu, titles and awards, personal life.

Japanese figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu is widely renowned as one of the greatest athletes to ever grace the ice. He is a two-time Olympic, two-time World Champion, and frequent record-breaker. In 2014, he became the first Japanese person and first Asian man to win an Olympic gold medal for figure skating.

Hanyu began skating at the age of four and retired in 2022 from competition after a historic career at only 27. His impressive list of accolades and his unwavering commitment to expanding the artistry and athleticism of the sport make Japan’s “Ice Prince” beloved worldwide by fans. They also undoubtedly make him one of figure skating’s greatest athletes of all time.      

• Birthdate : December 7, 1994
• Education : Nanakita Elementary and Junior High School, Tohoku High School, Waseda University
• Net Worth : $2 million
• Occupation : Retired Professional Men’s Figure Skater
• Height : 5’6” (173cm)
• Weight : 117 lbs (53 kg)
• Position : Men’s Figure Skating Singles
• Years Active : 2004-2002 (18 years) 
• Notable Career Wins : Two Olympic gold medals, Two World Championships gold medals.
• Nicknames : The Ice Prince, Mushroom, Mushy
• Teams : Japan

Social Media :

• Business Website

Yuzuru Hanyu’s current net worth is estimated to be around $2 million . The vast majority of the athlete’s wealth is from his long list of wins, including two Olympic gold medals. He has also participated in Ice Shows and announced in early 2022 that he would be producing and directing his own show, entitled “Prologue.” In addition, Hanyu has partnerships with major major brands, including cosmetics company Kose, airline ANA, and Citizen Watches. 

Yuzuru Hanyu began skating at four years old. He cites Russian skater Yevgeny Plushchenko and American skater Johnny Weir as inspirations during his early years. He had an impressive run at the junior level, earning gold in 2009 at the Junior Grand Prix final in Tokyo and in 2010 at the Junior World Championships. As he progressed to the senior level in 2011, Hanyu’s career showed no sign of slowing down. He even earned silver in the Grand Prix final in 2013 and secured gold the following year. 

Hanyu truly made his mark in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, winning the gold medal with a record-breaking 101.45 points in the short program at just 19 years old. At that same moment, he also became the first Asian man to win gold in singles figure skating. He captured gold at the World Championships that same year. He dominated the Grand Prix for a third consecutive year in 2015 and earned silver at the World Championships that year and the following year. After recovering from an ankle injury in 2018, Hanyu still went on to win his second consecutive Olympic gold, becoming the first man to do so since Dick Button in 1952. 

In the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Hanyu went for yet another record, attempting to land the first quadruple axel jump in competition-skating history. He was unsuccessful, and the risk cost him a spot at the podium. Nonetheless, Hanyu’s spirit was commended worldwide, and he is commonly celebrated as the benchmark for men’s figure skating. Even more than his impressive list of titles, his willingness to test boundaries and constantly expand his skills is the true signature of Yuzuru Hanyu’s remarkable career.   

• 2x Olympic gold medalist
• 2x World Championships gold medalist
• 4x Grand Prix Final gold medalist
• 2020 Four Continents gold medalist

Yuzuru Hanyu has broken an astounding 19 scoring records and is recognized as one of the greatest male figure skaters in history.  As of 2022, he is the only male singles skater in history credited with the notorious “Super Slam,” meaning he has won every major figure skating competition at both the junior and senior levels . 

During his career, Hanyu won gold at the World Junior Figure Skating, ISU Junior Grand Prix, the Winter Olympics, World Figure Skating, ISU Grand Prix, and ISU Four Continents. He is the first Japanese and first Asian man to win an Olympic gold medal for figure skating and succeeded in winning two consecutively. Aside from his long list of athletic accomplishments, he is also the youngest Japanese person to be awarded the Prime Minister’s People’s Honour Award.   

Yuzuru Hanyu was born in Izumi Ku, Sendai, Japan on December 7, 1994.  His parents are Hitedoshi Hanyu and Yumi Hanyu, and he has an older sister Saya Hanyu, whose figure-skating-footsteps he followed in. While his skating career has been impressive, Hanyu has faced personal adversity even at the height of his success.

In 2011, a 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck his hometown of Sendai, destroying Hanyu’s home and skating rink. He recalls the trauma as a moment that entirely transformed his values, and he later donated his Olympic winnings to related disaster relief causes. He continued to be a philanthropist throughout his career, giving back at any opportunity to the village that raised him. 

Despite his near popstar-level celebrity, Hanyu keeps most of his personal life quite private, only joining social media in September of 2022 to begin promoting his new self-produced and directed ice show,“Prologue.” He remains unmarried and publicly unattached, and it is speculated that his persistent commitment to his career has left little time for romantic relationships.

• Yuzuru Hanyu is a two-time Olympic and two-time World Champion.
• He set a record in his first Olympic appearance, scoring over 100 points in the short program.
• He was also the first to score over 200 in the men’s free skate.
• He holds 21 of the top 25 highest-scored competitive triple axels.
• As of 2022, he is the only male figure skater to accomplish the “Super Slam.” 
• He is the first male skater since Dick Button in 1952 to win two consecutive gold medals.
• He was the first to land a quadruple loop jump in competitive history.
• At just 19, he became the youngest to win gold since Dick Button in 1948.
• Former skater Johnny Weir designed Hanyu’s gold-winning costume for the Sochi Olympics.
• Hanyu’s supporters refer to themselves as “Fanyus.”
• Fans often shower the skater post-performance with many stuffed Winnie the Pooh dolls, a tradition that started after fans noticed his Pooh-themed tissues.
• Hanyu donates all dolls he receives at competitions to local children’s hospitals.
• Aside from “Ice Prince” he has fondly been nicknamed “Mushroom” and “Mushy” because of his hair.

When was Yuzuru Hanyu injured?

Yuzuru Hanyu suffered a leg injury just a day before competing in the short program in Beijing’s 2022 Olympics.  He also sprained his ankle while practicing the elusive quadruple axel for the free skate. Doctors recommended that he pull out of the competition, but Hanyu was determined to compete and attempt the quad.

Why did Yuzuru Hanyu retire?

Yuzuru Hanyu announced his retirement on July 19, 2022. He suffered an ankle injury prior to competing in the 2022 Beijing Olympics and cited this as the catalyst for his transition from the world of professional figure skating. Despite his Olympic and competitive career coming to an end, the skater has no intention of leaving the ice entirely. He instead hopes to expand and innovate the sport in new arenas.

Did Yuzuru Hanyu land a quadruple axel?

Yuzuru Hanyu was never able to land a quad axel cleanly in competition . His first attempt was at the Japanese Championships in 2021. He was slightly under-rotated and landed the jump on two feet instead of one, leading judges to downgrade the jump to a triple axel. His second attempt was at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, and though this time the jump was scored as a quadruple axel, he fell out of it. Though the risk didn’t quite pay off, Hanyu’s attempt was historic.   

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• olympics 2018

5 Things to Know About Figure Skating Champion Yuzuru Hanyu

I t’s a feat that hasn’t been achieved for more than six decades , but reigning Olympic figure skating champion Yuzuru Hanyu isn’t known to let a little thing like precedent get in his way. The 23-year-old — already known by some as the greatest figure skater ever — is competing in the 2018 Pyeonchang Winter Olympics against skating stars like Spain’s Javier Fernández and the U.S.’s Nathan Chen in an attempt to reclaim the men’s figure skating gold medal. The last male singles skater to win gold at two successive Olympics was America’s Dick Button in 1948 and 1952.

But Hanyu, known as Japan’s “Ice Prince,” has to overcome more than just the weight of history if he’s to seize the title in a back-to-back win. A severe ankle injury kept him off the ice and unable to train for more than two months. He’s made a comeback before, including after abdominal surgery, and he’s still favored to place on the Olympic podium. After coming out on top in the men’s short program on Feb. 16, he’s in good position to continue on his quest.

At the 2014 Sochi games, Hanyu’s routine broke the 100-point scoring ceiling, setting a world record with 101.7 points for his short program. He went on to claim gold, even though he fell twice during his free skate. Hanyu was the first male skater representing an Asian country to take gold, and the youngest since Button.

Disappointed by his less-than-perfect Sochi performance, Hanyu pledged to return to the next Olympics with an unblemished showing. It’s a pledge he is already keeping.

Here’s what you should know about Yuzuru Hanyu.

Hanyu’s Injury Could Jeopardize His Chances of Winning Gold in Pyeongchang

His coaches said he would compete, but it was an open question since a media blackout was imposed on his training and he hadn’t been able to compete since November last year.

Hanyu took an ill-timed tumble while practicing a difficult, four-revolutions jump called a quadruple lutz ahead of the NHK Trophy on Nov. 9. The awkward fall caused bone, tendon and ligament damage.

Pressure to master such injury-risking jumps has increased, in part, with the rise of teenage jumping prodigy and U.S. national champion Nathan Chen – Hanyu’s expected rival at Pyeonchang and the first in the sport’s history to land five quadruple jumps in a single routine.

Despite a prolonged recovery period that forced Hanyu to skip several qualifying championships, he was named to Japan’s Olympic team and is one of their top hopes for a gold medal.

At one point, Japan’s Kyodo news agency said that Hanyu would not participate in the men’s figure skating team event. Then his coach confirmed he would be performing in the individual competition.

#Japan 's #YuzuruHanyu will participate in the men's #FigureSkating individual event at the #Pyeongchang #WinterOlympics , though will not perform a quad lutz: coach #BrianOrser #羽生結弦 https://t.co/mlVrA7c4cl — Kyodo News | Japan (@kyodo_english) February 5, 2018

Hanyu Has the Luck of Winnie the Pooh on His Side

Hanyu is never without his Winnie the Pooh teddy bear tissue dispenser. He’s known to hug his rink-side companion for good luck just before getting on the ice, and to bring the cartoon character along to interviews. Pooh Bears have become a mascot for Hanyu’s besotted fans who sport Pooh ears and throw Pooh plushies onto the rink after his routines.

Due to corporate sponsorship rules, the Pooh talisman will have to stay in the dressing room during the Olympics however.

Hanyu Survived Japan’s 2011 Earthquake and Tsunami

When the devastating Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami hit Japan in 2011, Hanyu was near the epicenter, skating at his hometown rink in Sendai. As the tremors caused water pipes to burst, Hanyu, then just 16, reportedly rushed off the ice with no time to even put skate guards on his blades. His family slept in an emergency shelter for three days.

Ultimately, the disaster became a motivating factor in his career. In his autobiography, Blue Flames , Hanyu wrote that the earthquake “totally changed my values.” He joined other skaters in a benefit show to raise recovery funds and when he won the Olympics three years later, Hanyu called it “ a gift for my country.”

See Yuzuru Hanyu in all his glory from the 2014 #WinterOlympics Men's free skate during the Olympic Skating Spectacular NOW on @olympicchannel : Home of Team USA! Get ready! Sign up for NBC Olympics newsletters here: https://t.co/3yLlr3wzTG pic.twitter.com/K1r87frbe8 — NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) January 2, 2018

Hanyu Is Able to Execute Moves Most Male Figure Skaters Can’t

While skating competitions have increasingly boiled down to who can do quads (a jump with at least four revolutions) as cleanly as possible to maximize points, commentators and fellow skaters praise Hanyu for his well-rounded performances, which combine technical precision with artistry and athleticism.

“He’s the most complete athlete in figure skating, probably ever,” Stephane Lambiel, a 2006 Olympic silver medalist, told the New York Times .

Hanyu’s performances tend to cross gender lines not only through the incorporation of elegant, dramatic and emotional dance choreography more often prized in women’s skating, but also through the moves he executes. Beyond proficient jumps, Hanyu’s routines are packed with elaborate spins like the Biellmann – a one-foot spin where the other foot is lifted above and behind the head. The move is more popular with female skaters, as it requires a great amount of flexibility to pull it off. Hanyu’s spins are so iconic that fans have even named one move the “Hanyu spin.”

Hanyu Might Have Become a Professional Baseball Player

As a child in primary school, Hanyu said he almost gave up on figure skating. He wrote in his autobiography that while he had loved the adrenaline of competitions since he was in kindergarten, he loathed the monotony of practice. His father played baseball, and in the third grade, Hanyu said he decided he wanted to pursue professional baseball instead. It took the temporary closure of his hometown rink one year later and a long commute that limited his time on the ice for him to realize the importance of practicing and his commitment to skating.

Here’s When Hanyu Skates Next for the Medal

After completing his Feb. 16 short program with a personal best record breaking 111.68 points, ahead of Spain’s Javier Fernández and Japanese teammate Shoma Uno. Hanyu will take to the ice for his free skate once more on Feb. 17 in South Korea — which means it will air in the U.S. on NBC’s primetime coverage and online on the evening of Friday, Feb. 16.

TIME reporter Raisa Bruner contributed to this article.

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Japanese Olympic Figure-Skater Yuzuru Hanyu and His Rise to Fame

Yuzuru Hanyu is the gold standard of preternatural skill and character, both on and off the ice.

Nicole Zhou , Staff Reporter | March 19, 2021

Yuzuru Hanyu’s ‘Let Me Entertain You’ program was held at the Japanese Nationals. Here is an artistic rendering of the moment.

At twenty-six years old, Yuzuru Hanyu’s accomplishments are nothing short of impressive. Having won two Olympic medals at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games at age 19, only to defend his title by winning gold again at PyeongChang 2018 , he is the first Asian skater in the men’s singles category to achieve an Olympic medal. He has also broken 18 world records and counting such as the hundred point barrier in the men’s short program, two hundred points in the free skate, and exceeded the total three hundred points in the new +/-5 Grade of Execution (GOE) scoring system , proving that it is possible to go past the fluorescent yellow tape mark. Needless to say, Hanyu is the epitome of figure skating, with ‘The New York Times’ reporter Jeré Longman dubbing him “ Michael Jackson on Ice . ” However, behind those triple salchows and sharpened blades lies a person whose whole is greater than his parts, in that he is not limited to only his ice skating abilities but also a blend of charisma, humor, modesty, and values deeply rooted in Japanese culture. 

Hanyu started ice skating at just four-years-old . His mother originally took him to his sister’s figure skating lessons as therapy for his asthma , but after watching the heavily publicized competition between Russian skaters Alexei Yagudin and Yevgeny Plushenko , Hanyu became inspired and entered his first novice-level competition at the age of ten. 

Hanyu’s family has undoubtedly been a crucial part of his success. Their faith in him may have fueled his ambition at a young age, evident in an interview where he claimed that he could become a gold medalist , only to manifest it years later. Even though his family wholeheartedly supported his career, they also pushed him to do well in school, citing that he should not only have skating for show, and in September of 2020, he graduated from Japan’s prestigious “ Waseda University .’

Part of Hanyu’s appeal comes from the grace with which he handles tragedy. In 2011, he was caught up in the 8.9 magnitude Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami , which killed 15,897 people. Later on, he revisited areas that were decimated by the disaster and recalled how he and his family were trapped in the school evacuation site for days without running water or food. He said that in the beginning, everyone got two small rice balls, but after a while, two people resorted to sharing one. He recounts his appreciation for the rock-hard food from the lack of hot water, by taking tiny bites. He described restless nights and the inability to practice, as his home rink was completely destroyed and how the situation still haunts him. 

As he gave this interview, you could not help but feel for the victims as you started to see the gravity of the situation. In this way, he became an unofficial spokesperson for those who were caught up in the earthquake. Hanyu’s teary eyes and wavering voice remind us of his humanity, despite accomplishing amazing things. Yet if this earthquake taught us anything, it is that Hanyu will let nothing slow him down, and that includes natural disasters . Since then, he has attended sixty different ice skating shows to raise money and donated his Olympic winnings and previous campaigns towards Tōhoku relief. In addition, he conducted an ice show with other skaters and donated the royalties from his two autobiographies in order to rebuild his old hometown skating rink. 

Hanyu is regarded as a beacon of hope for the victims; he went into his competitions to distract them and put a smile on their faces. He handled the immense pressure with poise at such a young age and his selfless attitude is remarkable. Hanyu stopped taking the ice skating rink for granted and relishes the spotlight every chance he gets. Even casual viewers can tell that he truly loves performing with the way he expresses himself through the motions in Notte Stellata , as a tribute to the victims at the PyeongChang Figure Skating Gala.

Having been a casual viewer myself with no knowledge of figure skating terms in weeks prior, I fell down the rabbit-hole of watching performances where he combines raw artistry and musicality with technique in order to create visually appealing, yet effortless arrays of jumps followed by toe sequences. My all-time favorite routine is “ Parisienne Walkways .” If any one of his pieces could capture his “Michael Jackson” essence, it would be this blues-genre, electrifying performance. It does not come as a surprise that he broke the Short Program Olympic record in the men’s Figure Skating event at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games with it. 

In “Parisienne Walkways,” there’s a correlation between the shrill, electrical, confident ring of the music and the way that Hanyu moves with such long, smooth, and high leg kicks. The way that he snaps up his head always fits the beat, and his sporadic jumps are never overused, but rather nestled in between his fluid turns at the end of every note.

He uses his arms often as well, raising and positioning them in ballerina form. In actuality, Yuzuru mimics a lot of the grace and rigor of ballet in his performance, taking it on ice instead. He goes from one sequence to the next, interconnecting the steps. This program is truly a masterpiece that draws out all parts of the music and Hanyu’s talents. An Instagram fan account by the name of “ yuzuu.pooh ” had similar thoughts. During the interview, they said, “Being a person who loves art in general, the way Yuzu moves, exuding so much confidence, fluidity, musicality, elegance, his shiny costumes…it was all very satisfying and pleasing to my eyes.” 

Despite his “coolness” on the ice, both figuratively and literally, records are not all that Hanyu has broken. On numerous occasions, he has broken gender stereotypes and toxic masculinity. In this way, Hanyu stands out, if not already enough. His fans have a running joke that you can identify him in a crowd of skaters by spotting the most bedazzled and sparkliest costume. He is known for his over-the-top, colorful outfits like in “ Let’s Go Crazy .” His body frame is also rather small, and “feminine.” But perhaps, most of all, he utilizes many moves that are popular in women’s figure skating that require tremendous flexibility like the Biellmann Spin.

As successful as Hanyu is, his ambition comes at a cost — his health. There are too many accounts to name in which he has been injured, leaving his fans nervous wrecks after he disappears for several weeks. He has always been one to reach beyond the limits, yet he does not consider his body’s boundaries. To become an Olympic champion, he relied on painkillers and sheer willpower in order to get through his programs. 

On several occasions, he was worried that he would never skate again. He constantly seems to be in a race against the clock. With an ice skater’s prime being around 25 years of age and a new batch of young energetic athletes entering the field, Hanyu expressed his wish to jump the quad axel at Beijing 2022 , a jump never done before in competition. However, people are worried about his health, especially considering his history of injuries.  

After passing out and crashing into China’s Yan Han in the ‘2014 Cup of China’ during warm-ups , spectators were unsure if he would still perform. He was ushered off the ice with a bloody forehead and chin. However, against all odds and a quick trip to the hospital, Hanyu delivered an unforgettable performance with bandages wrapped around his head. 

He fell during almost all his jumps , leading to deductions, but it was all the more emotional when he picked himself up over and over and attempted the jumps again, even though he had not fully recovered from his injury. His falls were stark in comparison to his usual clean skates, which made it harder to watch. He could have opted-out of the competition with his doctors’ and coaches’ recommendations, but he put his country and fans over his health. 

That being said, Hanyu never lets his ambition get in the way of his sportsmanship. He stated that he feels most satisfied when all of his competitors skated well because it pushes him to try harder.   Many people credit him and the new wave of skaters with overturning the sour precognition of skating rivals such as the infamous Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding duo or Aleksey Yagudin and Yevgeny Plushenko. Hanyu and his competitors are respectful of each other’s cultures and have even helped each other to learn various languages for worldwide interviews. 

Although they are scored individually, skating has become somewhat of a team sport now. Hanyu hugs his rink-mates, conducts interviews, and spends time with them off the ice. Fans live for these friendships, especially Hanyu’s notable bond with Javier Fernández , the Spain representative. A perfect example of the chemistry between the skaters is the “ This Is Me ” performance at PyeongChang 2018. The figure skaters link arms and carry one another while dancing, eventually collapsing into a tight group hug. 

Of course, none of this would be possible without the fans . Hanyu has said repeatedly that he feels grateful for all the love he receives from all over the world and that his fans are extremely respectful of his personal space. Many middle-aged women flock to his competitions in masses, holding signs and making banners with thousands of messages on them . 

At the end of all of Hanyu’s performances, a “ pooh rain ” occurs. Inspired by his infatuation with Winnie the Pooh, fans throw plushies of the character instead of traditional roses onto the ice. Hanyu fans like to joke that he is single-handedly saving the Pooh toy industry. The mutual trust, dedication, and love Hanyu and his fans have for each other is remarkable. 

 Hanyu has certainly taken Japan by storm. Subways and public spaces are plastered with photos of the skater, and he is the youngest recipient of the People’s Honor Award , given by the prime minister. “While running my fan page, I’ve come to realize that there are many different types of people supporting yuzuru: people from other fandoms and people with other interests. For example, anime fans, K-pop stans, fans of other sports, elderly people, young people. I think that this joining of other fanbases helped spread and expand yuzuru’s popularity,” wrote yuzuu.pooh.

Despite his popularity, Hanyu and his family prefer to stay out of the limelight. “I’ve also noticed that he has a mysterious aura about him; he doesn’t share anything too personal, and doesn’t even have any social media, which I think just adds to his charm since it’s so rare nowadays.”

We know that Hanyu will continue to amaze us and break more records in the years to come. Although t he COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on his regular training schedule, this means that he has more time to rest to prepare for Beijing 2022.

“Being a person who loves art in general, the way Yuzu moves, exuding so much confidence, fluidity, musicality, elegance, his shiny costumes…it was all very satisfying and pleasing to my eyes,” wrote yuzuu.pooh.

• #winnie-the-pooh
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Nicole Zhou is the Editor-in-Chief for ‘The Observatory' yearbook and a Staff Reporter for 'The Science Survey' newspaper. This is her third year revising...

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Yuzuru Hanyu Writes Another Chapter in Figure Skating Legend

By Jeré Longman and Victor Mather

• Feb. 16, 2018

GANGNEUNG, South Korea — At a figure-skating competition in Moscow last October, Yuzuru Hanyu was told that he resembled to some a heroic character, delicate but fierce, from the Japanese tradition of anime.

He did not see himself that way, the slender, long-legged Hanyu said in an interview, his hair flopping over one eyebrow. But with a smile, he added, “I like to win with some drama.”

He could have had no idea how much drama lay ahead.

Less than three weeks later, Hanyu sustained ligament damage to his right ankle while rehearsing a difficult four-revolution jump. Nearly four months elapsed before he could compete again, here at the Winter Olympics, but he showed little erosion of skill or victorious determination from the layoff.

Skating on Saturday, Hanyu, 23, did not perform flawlessly before what was essentially a home crowd, in an arena where fans waved dozens of Japanese flags. But he displayed sufficient stamina, jumping ability, elastic spins and ethereal grace to win a second consecutive gold medal, becoming the first men’s repeat Olympic champion since Dick Button of the United States in 1948 and 1952.

The ankle is not completely healed, and Hanyu said he worried at times before the Games whether he would be able to skate again. But the injured joint held up enough to support another winning performance, with 317.85 points. Afterward, Hanyu said playfully, “I’d like to thank my ankle, you did a good job.”

He prevailed with a strategy of restraint, avoiding the riskiest quadruple jumps in his four-and-a-half-minute routine and relying on the completeness of his ability. His countryman, Shoma Uno, 20, took the silver medal with 306.90 points. And Javier Fernandez, 26, a training partner of Hanyu’s, won Spain’s first Olympic skating medal, taking bronze with 305.24 points.

Even though Nathan Chen of the United States, who was among the early favorites, did not reach the medal podium, he did find some measure of redemptive satisfaction — and perhaps some sting of regret — with a performance of audacious ambition that brought him fifth place over all. Vincent Zhou of the United States finished sixth, and Adam Rippon, also of the United States, was 10th.

With nothing to lose after finishing a disastrous 17th in Friday’s short program, Chen became the first Olympian to land five quadruple jumps cleanly in a routine and actually attempted six, but he put his hands to the ice on a quad flip. He still won the free skate.

He made the decision to attempt six quads on Friday night, after the short program. Relieved of expectation and feeling “just an anger,” he told himself, “I’ll just go for it.”

“I definitely did want to redeem myself after the two short programs that I did here,” Chen said in reference to his mistake-filled performances in the team and singles competition.

He added: “As much as I tried to deny it, I felt the pressure a lot before the short program, especially thinking about scores and placement and all that. And that was completely out of my control. That just tightened me up and made me really cautious on the ice. I just had to completely forget about expectations and allow myself to be myself.”

By contrast, Hanyu was every bit himself in both the Olympic short and long program — unhurried, resolute, staking a claim to be the greatest skater ever with his speed, artistry, coverage of the ice and technical skill.

Reached by telephone in New York, Button said of Hanyu, “I think he’s beautiful; he moves like a dream.”

Wearing a white tunic on Saturday, Hanyu performed as a character out of Japanese folklore: Abe no Seimei, a spiritual adviser and astrologer from the 11th century with Merlin-like mystical powers. He received one perfect score of 10 for musical interpretation and two 10s for the design of his program.

Hanyu can appear so relaxed on the ice that Julian Yee, a Malaysian skater, said he “looks like he wakes up from bed and goes and jumps.”

On Nov. 9, though, Hanyu’s Olympic chances grew uncertain, when he landed awkwardly while rehearsing a quad lutz before a competition in Japan. It is the most difficult of the four-revolution jumps currently being performed. Hanyu was trying to perfect the lutz, in part, to match Chen’s magnificent jumping ability.

But Hanyu’s legs pretzeled upon landing the jump. He would not be able to train again on the ice for about two months. As he recovered, he rehearsed the jumps on the floor of his training center in Toronto and used visualization techniques to imagine himself completing the maneuvers in competition.

“My strength is, I’m able to really analyze myself and have that image and try to match that with the physical skating,” Hanyu said Saturday.

He arrived at the Olympics, having been able to practice his triple axel for only about three weeks and his quad jumps for two weeks. He avoided the risky quad lutz at these Games, performing instead two quad salchows and two quad toeloops, which are considered easier and more reliable, in his long program.

In the end, the injury “could be the best thing that ever happened” for Hanyu, said Jackie Wong, a prominent blogger from New York who is a former skater and skating judge and who is covering the Olympics. “He wasn’t going for unnecessary difficulty.”

Hanyu disregarded any talk about being the greatest ever in his sport, saying, “I’m not the best skater.” But others were not so reluctant.

“If you want him to be, you wouldn’t be wrong,” said Kurt Browning of Canada, a four-time world champion in the late 1980s and early 1990s. “Why not. He’s everything. He’s the skater, he’s the jumper, but quintessentially, he’s the performer. He seems to have the superpower to take all the pressure, all the expectations and all the lights and all the cameras, and somehow he’s able to use it as a competitor.”

Here’s how the free skate played out:

Germany’s Paul Fentz Does Game of Thrones Cosplay

Paul Fentz of Germany had a heavily themed Game of Thrones routine. He skated to the dramatic music from the television show’s soundtrack, and was dressed in a shirt designed to look like armor. He wore one gold glove, perhaps reminding some viewers of Jaime Lannister, who has a metal hand. But the judges did not seem to agree that Winter is coming, and put him in third place of the three skaters who have gone.

Japan’s Keiji Tanaka Leads Early; Nathan Chen Up Next

With the six lesser lights of the 24 competitors having skated, Keiji Tanaka of Japan is the early leader, helped by a quad Salchow at the top of his program. The second group of six will include Nathan Chen of the United States, who disappointed badly in his short program, but has a daring five-quad program to try to make up ground.

Two Quads Gives Bychenko the Lead

Alexei Bychenko of Israel, the first skater of the second group, gave a strong performance that moved him into the lead. Bychenko, skating to music from the opera Pagliacci, hit both his quads and fell to his knees with joy at the end of the performance.

Nathan Chen Gets Aggressive, Goes for Six Quads

Nathan Chen, who bombed his short program and stood in only 17th place, hoped to make up ground with a daring five quad performance. But he did not land five quads. He threw in one more and landed six.

Chen, 18, performed a quad Lutz, flip combination, flip, toe loop combination, toe loop and Salchow. The quad toe loop-triple toe loop combo scored a huge 17.63 points by itself. Chen also did well on the more subjective judging elements, getting over 9 for performance. He takes a big lead over the other early skaters, by a full 40 points.

It was a redemptive and audaciously ambitious performance. Chen became the first Olympian to land five quadruple jumps cleanly in a routine and actually attempted six, but put his hands to the ice on the quad flip. His score of 297.35 could put him in medal contention if the leaders struggle later.

Brendan Kerry Invokes Pink Floyd

Brendan Kerry of Australia has had some of the more intriguing musical choices of the event. In the short program he skated to an eerie cover of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World.” For the free skate he chose a Pink Floyd medley, including “Shine on You Crazy Diamond” and “Money.” But his performance wasn’t quite up to snuff and he bailed out of his quads. That concluded the second group of six skaters. Twelve to go. Chen still leads by 40 points.

Keegan Messing Puts on a Show

The Olympics are at their heart, a sports competition, but no one has had more fun here than Keegan Messing of Canada, who entertained the crowd with a Charlie Chaplin routine on Saturday after skating to Singin’ in the Rain on Friday.

He is unapologetic about being a showman as much as a competitor. “I just feel like I can bring the crowd in; it makes my skating so much more fun for me,” he said. Messing also hit two quads and moved into third place.

Nathan Chen Made a “Game-Time Decision” to Try 6 Quads

Leader Nathan Chen spoke after his amazing program:

“Having such a rough short program allowed me to just forget about expectations and just allow myself to really enjoy myself,” Chen said. “I think six quads was almost a game-time decision, I knew at that point that I had literally nothing to lose.

“As much as I tried to deny it, I felt the pressure a lot before the short program, especially thinking about scores and placement and all that. And that was completely out of my control. That just tightened me up and made me really cautious on the ice.”

Vincent Zhou Nearly Matches Nathan Chen

Vincent Zhou, 17, exceeded expectations in his short program, placing 12th. And he rolled out an ambitious five-quad free skate. And like his countryman Nathan Chen, he delivered.

In skating’s complicated scoring system, Zhou was credited with four quadruple jumps, three of them landed cleanly. He put his hand to the ice on a quad flip. And his attempt to become the first Olympic skater to land two quad Lutzes — the most difficult of the four-revolution jumps being performed — came up short. His second Lutz was judged to have been under-rotated. Still, his score for the long program was a lifetime best of 192.16 points.

His technical score was only 7 off Chen’s and he moved into second place overall, 21 points down. Zhou is definitely one to watch for 2022.

Adam Rippon Skates a Clean Program, but No Quads

Adam Rippon, the man with the killer abs , was the final American to skate. A program without quads would make it difficult to finish high, but he wheeled out all his showmanship, including birdlike motions while skating to Coldplay’s “Arrival of the Birds.” And he landed all those triples.

Rippon skated with his accustomed elegance, but the jumping prowess of Nathan Chen and Vincent Zhou illustrated the gulf between his artistry and the bold athleticism needed to score highly under today’s scoring system.

With six more to skate, the American men can finish no lower than 7th, 8th and 10th. This is the fourth time in the last five Olympics that all three men have made the top 10. The last time was 2010, when Evan Lysacek won the gold medal, Johnny Weir finished sixth and Jeremy Abbott took ninth.

Dmitri Aliev Struggles

Dmitri Aliev, the 18-year-old Russian, was the first of the final six to skate and probably the least likely winner, with only two quads in his program. He wound up falling as well and can only place third, though that’s not likely.

Jin Boyang Passes Nathan Chen for First Place

Jin Boyang of China was fourth after the short program and planned a four-quad program set to “The Planets” and the Cantina Theme and other music from “Star Wars.” Jin delivered an almost clean routine, marred by one fall. His free skate score was lower than Nathan Chen’s, but Jin had a 21-point lead over Chen after the short program. It adds up to a new leader by less than a point. Chen is back in second.

Patrick Chan Can’t Make Up Ground

Patrick Chan of Canada was sixth after the short program. His routine, set to Jeff Buckley’s version of “Hallelujah,” had two quads, both right at the top. He landed the first and stepped out of the second one slightly. He also put a hand down on a later jump and had an unprovoked stumble. An always dignified skater, the 27-year-old Chan stood only in sixth. Next up, the leader and gold medal favorite, Yuzuru Hanyu.

Yuzuru Hanyu Leads After Strong Routine

Yuzuru Hanyu of Japan, the world’s most famous Winnie the Pooh enthusiast, had the gold medal for the taking, with the lead and a four-quad performance planned. He nailed the first three, but stumbled on the fourth, a planned quad-single-triple combination. It might have been enough for the gold, but Hanyu threw in one more unplanned quad for good measure. One more small stumble came on a triple, but Hanyu laid down a strong performance that will make him hard to catch. Winnie the Pooh dolls rained down from the audience in the aftermath.

Hanyu took over first place. His free skate score was 6 points lower than Chen’s but combined with the short program he claimed a 20-point lead.

Javier Fernandez in 2nd Place After Strong Routine

Javier Fernandez of Spain was fourth four years ago, but he put himself in position to get a medal this time. After a strong second in the short program, he delivered in his free skate to Man of La Mancha, completing two of his three planned quads. The last skater will be Shoma Uno of Japan, with the current medal positions Hanyu-Fernandez-Jin. The American Nathan Chen has slipped to fourth place.

Shoma Uno Passes Fernandez for Silver

It all came down to Shoma Uno, who could get a medal and maybe even the gold if he nailed his four-quad program set to Turandot. But he fell on Quad No. 1 and stepped out of a combo. It was good enough for second place, and Yuzuru Hanyu repeated as the men’s Olympic champion. Bronze to Javier Fernandez.

Karen Crouse contributed from Gangneung, South Korea.

Figure skating star Hanyu speaks after Uno's announcement on retirement

Japanese figure skating star Hanyu Yuzuru paid tribute to compatriot Uno Shoma following Uno's announcement that he will retire from competition.

Hanyu released a statement after two-time Olympic figure skating medalist Uno made the announcement on Thursday.

Hanyu, together with Uno, led the men's figure skating world before retiring from competition. He won back-to-back Olympic golds at Sochi in 2014 and PyeongChang in 2018, and participated in the PyeongChang Games and the 2022 Beijing Games with Uno.

Hanyu said that he competed with Uno since he was in elementary and junior high school and knows how determined Uno was to work hard.

He went on to say that he believes Uno will continue to make efforts even though he will be in a slightly different environment.

Hanyu wished Uno a lot of happiness, adding that he will keep enjoying "Uno Shoma's ideal skating."

He added that he looks forward to having time together with Uno on the rink again as skaters.

He concluded by saying he hopes Uno can enjoy the next phase of his life.

Yuzuru Hanyu: Inside the Mind of a Figure Skating Genius

Are you curious about what goes on in the mind of a figure skating prodigy like Yuzuru Hanyu? In this article, we delve deep into the psyche of the two-time Olympic gold medalist to uncover the secrets behind his unmatched talent and unparalleled success on the ice. Join us as we explore the inner workings of this figure skating genius and discover what sets him apart from the rest.

Early Life and Training

Yuzuru Hanyu was born on December 7, 1994, in Sendai, Japan. He began figure skating at a young age, showing natural talent and dedication to the sport. Hanyu’s early life was marked by hard work and perseverance, as he trained rigorously to become a top figure skater.

Introduction to Figure Skating

Hanyu was introduced to figure skating by his older sister, who also competed in the sport. He quickly fell in love with the grace and athleticism required in figure skating and decided to pursue it as a career. Hanyu’s passion for the sport drove him to achieve great success on the ice.

Training Regimen

Hanyu’s training regimen is known for its intensity and focus on perfection. He spends hours on the ice each day, working on his jumps, spins, and footwork. Hanyu also incorporates off-ice training, such as strength and conditioning exercises, to improve his overall performance. His dedication to training has helped him become a two-time Olympic champion and multiple-time world champion.

Coaches and Mentors

Throughout his career, Hanyu has worked with several coaches and mentors who have helped shape his skating style and technique. His long-time coach, Brian Orser, has been instrumental in Hanyu’s success, providing guidance and support both on and off the ice. Hanyu also looks up to past figure skating legends, drawing inspiration from their performances and achievements. The support and guidance from his coaches and mentors have played a crucial role in Hanyu’s development as a figure skating genius.

Rise to Fame

Yuzuru Hanyu began figure skating at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks to become a prominent figure in the sport. His exceptional talent and dedication to his craft set him apart from his peers, leading to early success in junior competitions.

Competitive Success

Hanyu’s competitive success is unparalleled, with numerous gold medals and world championship titles to his name. He is a two-time Olympic champion, solidifying his place as one of the greatest figure skaters of all time. His performances are known for their technical precision, artistry, and emotional depth, captivating audiences around the world.

Innovative Techniques

Hanyu is known for pushing the boundaries of figure skating with his innovative techniques and complex choreography. His signature move, the "quad loop," has set him apart from his competitors and earned him acclaim for his technical prowess. He continues to push himself to new heights, constantly refining his skills and exploring new ways to express himself on the ice.

Impact on the Sport

Hanyu’s impact on the sport of figure skating is immeasurable. He has inspired a new generation of skaters with his dedication, artistry, and competitive spirit. His influence can be seen in the way that skaters approach their performances, with many striving to emulate his style and technique. Hanyu’s legacy will continue to shape the future of figure skating for years to come.

Challenges and Injuries

Yuzuru Hanyu, the two-time Olympic champion in figure skating, has faced numerous challenges and injuries throughout his career. From dealing with intense competition to battling physical setbacks, Hanyu has shown resilience and determination in overcoming these obstacles.

Overcoming Adversity

Despite facing setbacks, Yuzuru Hanyu has consistently demonstrated his ability to overcome adversity. Whether it’s a tough loss in competition or a debilitating injury, Hanyu’s unwavering perseverance and dedication to his craft have helped him bounce back stronger than ever.

Dealing with Pressure

As one of the most accomplished figure skaters in the world, Yuzuru Hanyu is no stranger to pressure. Whether it’s the expectations of fans and media or the demands of high-stakes competitions, Hanyu has learned to thrive under pressure and deliver his best performances when it matters most.

Injury Comebacks

Throughout his career, Yuzuru Hanyu has experienced his fair share of injuries, including a notable ankle injury that threatened to derail his skating career. However, through hard work and determination, Hanyu has successfully made impressive comebacks from these setbacks, proving that he is not only a figure skating genius but also a resilient and tenacious athlete.

The Mind of a Genius

Yuzuru Hanyu is not just a figure skating champion, he is a true genius when it comes to the sport. His success can be attributed not only to his incredible physical abilities, but also to his exceptional mental strength and approach to the sport.

Psychological Approach

One of the key factors that sets Yuzuru Hanyu apart from his competitors is his psychological approach to figure skating. He is known for his unwavering focus and determination, as well as his ability to stay calm under pressure. Hanyu is able to block out distractions and negative thoughts, allowing him to perform at his best when it matters most.

Mental Toughness

In addition to his psychological approach, Yuzuru Hanyu possesses a remarkable level of mental toughness. He is able to overcome setbacks and challenges with grace and resilience, never allowing them to derail his focus or confidence. Hanyu’s ability to bounce back from disappointment and continue to push himself to new heights is a testament to his mental strength.

Visualization Techniques

Another key aspect of Yuzuru Hanyu’s success is his use of visualization techniques. He is known for visualizing his routines in intricate detail, mentally rehearsing every jump, spin, and step before he even sets foot on the ice. This mental practice not only helps Hanyu perfect his technique, but also allows him to build confidence and consistency in his performances.

In conclusion, Yuzuru Hanyu’s success as a figure skating genius can be attributed to his exceptional psychological approach, mental toughness, and visualization techniques. By mastering the mental aspects of the sport, Hanyu is able to consistently deliver world-class performances and continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in figure skating.

Legacy and Future

Yuzuru Hanyu, known for his incredible artistry and technical skills on the ice, has left a lasting legacy in the world of figure skating. With two Olympic gold medals and multiple world championships to his name, he has set a high standard for future generations of skaters to aspire to.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Hanyu’s dedication to his craft and unwavering determination have inspired countless young skaters around the world. His ability to push the boundaries of what is possible on the ice has motivated others to strive for greatness and reach their full potential in the sport.

Future Goals

Despite already achieving so much in his career, Hanyu continues to set new goals for himself. Whether it’s perfecting a difficult jump or creating a groundbreaking new routine, he is always pushing himself to be better and achieve even greater success in the sport.

Off-Ice Ventures

In addition to his on-ice accomplishments, Hanyu has also ventured into various off-ice projects. From charity work to fashion collaborations, he has shown a diverse range of interests and talents outside of figure skating. These ventures not only showcase his versatility but also highlight his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the rink.

In conclusion, Yuzuru Hanyu is not just a figure skating genius on the ice, but also a dedicated and disciplined athlete off the ice. His relentless pursuit of perfection and his ability to push the boundaries of what is possible in figure skating have solidified his place as one of the greatest skaters of all time. Through his artistry, technical skill, and mental strength, Yuzuru Hanyu continues to captivate audiences around the world and inspire future generations of figure skaters. As we delve into the mind of this remarkable athlete, we gain a deeper appreciation for the passion and determination that drives him to greatness.

Yuzuru Hanyu Biography

Yuzuru Hanyu, a Japanese figure skater, has made a significant impact on the sport by breaking world records twelve times in just a decade. With an impressive list of accomplishments, including two Olympic titles and multiple championships, Hanyu has solidified his place as one of the greatest figure skaters of all time. Not only has he shattered records for highest scores, but he has also been the first male skater to break several barriers in the sport.

Quick Facts

• Age: 29 Years
• Family: Siblings – Saya Hanyu
• Figure Skaters
• Japanese Men
• Height: 5’8″ (173 cm)
• Notable Alumni: Waseda University
• Education: Waseda University
• Awards: Medal with Purple Ribbon

Childhood & Early Life

Yuzuru Hanyu was born on December 7, 1994 in Sendai, Miyagi, Japan. He suffers from asthma, and often stops to catch his breath after finishing his programs. He has an older sister named Saya, who inspired him to take to the rink when he was just four. Tohoku High School, which he attended in his youth, has famous Japanese figure skaters Takeshi Honda and Shizuka Arakawa among its alumni.

Yuzuru Hanyu first competed nationally as a novice skater at the ‘2004 Japan Novice Championships’ in the Novice B category, in which he won the gold medal. During this time, he began training under Nanami Abe, but could not practice enough because his home rink in Sendai got closed due to financial issues. Winning the bronze medal at the ‘2006 Japan Novice Championships’ in the Novice A category, allowed him to compete at the ‘2006–07 Japan Junior Championships’, in which he finished 7th. After his home rink reopened in 2007, he won gold medal at the ‘2007 Japan Novice Championships’ in the Novice A category, followed by a bronze medal in the ‘2007–08 Japan Junior Championships’.

He made his junior level international debut at the ‘2008–09 ISU Junior Grand Prix’ event, where he finished fifth overall with 6th and 4th rank in short program and free skating, respectively. Later that season, he became the youngest male skater to win ‘Japan Junior Championship’ (age 13), and qualified for the senior level at the ‘2008–09 Japan Championships’, which he finished 8th. During the 2009–10 season, he topped the ‘Junior Grand Prix Final’ with wins at both events and also won the ‘Japan Junior Championships’. He was again invited to compete on the senior level at the ‘Japan Championships’ and won the ‘Junior Grand Prix Final’ with a new personal best score, followed by ‘2010 World Junior Championships’ win.

Moving up to the senior level during the 2010–11 season, he participated in the ‘2010 NHK Trophy’, which he finished fourth overall, and the ‘2010 Cup of Russia’, which he finished seventh. After finishing fourth at the ‘2010–11 Japan Championships’, he was selected to compete at the ‘2011 Four Continents Championships’, where he achieved a new personal best score and earned a silver medal. Starting the 2011–12 season with a win at the ‘Nebelhorn Trophy’, Yuzuru Hanyu was assigned to the ‘2011 Cup of China’ and the ‘2011 Rostelecom Cup’ for the ‘2011–12 Grand Prix’ series. With 4th and 1st position in the two events, he qualified for his first senior ‘Grand Prix Final’, which he finished fourth, followed by a bronze medal in his senior ‘World Championship’ debut.

He began training under Canadian coach Brian Orser in April 2012, and went on to win gold at the ‘2012 Finlandia Trophy’, silver at the ‘2012 Skate America’, and gold at the ‘2012 NHK Trophy’. He subsequently finished second at the ‘Grand Prix Final’ and claimed his first national title at the ‘Japan Championships’, followed by silver at the ‘2013 Four Continents Championships’ and 4th rank in ‘2013 World Championships’. He next won gold at the ‘2013 Finlandia Trophy’, and with two silvers at the ‘2013 Skate Canada International’ and ‘2013 Trophée Éric Bompard’, earned a spot in the ‘Grand Prix Final’, which he won. At the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, he won the first Olympic gold medal for Japan in men’s figure skating event. He ended the year with a victory at the 2014 World Figure Skating Championship in Saitama, Japan.

Despite suffering from injury and illness throughout the 2014-15 season, he successfully defended his Grand Prix Final title and also secured a silver medal at the 2015 World Championships. That season, he won his third consecutive Japan National Championships title and participating at the ‘2015 World Team Trophy’ for the first time, helped Team Japan win the bronze medal. At the 2015 NHK Trophy, he set the short program world record score of 106.33 and received 216.07 points in the free skating to reach a combined total of 322.40, breaking both the world records. He clenched his third consecutive Grand Prix Final by breaking his short program record with 110.95 points and his free skating record with 219.48 points, and set a new world record of 330.43 combined total. He won his fourth consecutive Japan Championships title during the 2015–16 season and despite sustaining an injury that kept him out for two months, finished the 2016 World Championships second. In the 2016-17 season, he defended his Grand Prix Final title and reclaimed his World Championships title, and in the process became the first skater in history to land a quadruple loop. He had an injury-ridden season in the 2017–18 which kept him off the ice for two months, and could only participate in three events that season. However, at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics, he successfully defended his Olympic title, a feat that had not been achieved since Dick Button’s back-to-back titles in 1948 and 1952.

Awards & Achievements

Yuzuru Hanyu is the first Asian figure skater to win the Olympic Gold in men’s singles, and also the first to achieve two consecutive wins. He is the youngest male skater to win the title in 66 years.

Personal Life & Legacy

As a victim of the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, Yuzuru Hanyu actively supports various campaigns to help people affected by the earthquake. He has donated proceedings from his two-part autobiography, ‘Blue Flames’ and ‘Blue Flames II’ to reconstruct the Sendai ice rink. Along with fellow Japanese figure skater Daisuke Takahashi, he was the ambassador for the ‘2014 Sochi Winter Olympics’ campaign. His on-screen debut was as samurai lord Date Shigemura, in the 2016 movie ‘The Magnificent Nine’.

Yuzuru Hanyu means “a bowstring which is pulled tight”. His father gave him this name and wanted him to be a hardworking guy leading a simple but dignified life. He often receives stuffed Pooh bears from the spectators as gifts because he is very fond of Winnie the Pooh.

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Hanyu Yuzuru: How his Olympic glory began at Sochi 2014

On the anniversary of Hanyu's first Olympic gold medal at Sochi 2014, we revisit the circumstances around the Japanese's triumph.

It's hard to believe, but it is exactly seven years since Hanyu Yuzuru won his first Olympic gold medal.

On 14 February 2014 in Sochi , the Japanese figure skater became the youngest Olympic men's singles champion for 66 years since Dick Button in 1948 .

Hanyu's triumph was just one of a breakthrough international year for the then-19-year-old, who dominated the 2014 season .

Here is how Olympic glory began for Hanyu.

Showing promise

The previous season, in 2012/13, Hanyu had shown his potential by winning his first Japanese national title as well as winning silver at both the Grand Prix Final and Four Continents Championships.

He would also go on to finish fourth at the 2013 World Championships, making his mark as one to watch in Sochi for the Olympic title.

The Olympic season started brightly for Hanyu, as he won at the Finlandia Trophy in his first competition of the year.

His two Grand Prix assignments, in Canada and France, both ended with silver medals behind Patrick Chan, who would be one of his biggest rivals in Sochi.

On the day before his 19th birthday, Hanyu won the first of four consecutive Grand Prix Final titles, finishing ahead of Chan; his short program score of 99.84 was then an ISU world record.

The Sendai skater would go on to defend his national championship, earning selection for the Olympics and Worlds.

First Olympic appearance

Hanyu's first appearance at the Olympics came in the team event, which preceded the singles competitions in Sochi.

Competing only in the men's short program, he outscored both Chan and 2006 Olympic champion Evgeni Plushenko to win the segment, scoring 10 points for Japan in the process.

However, with an eye on the men's singles event, he opted not to take part in the free skate portion of the team event; Japan would go on to finish fifth.

A week later, Hanyu took to the ice again for his individual debut at the Olympics. Skating to Parisienne Walkways by Gary Moore, he opened with a near-perfect quadruple toe loop before a well-landed triple Axel.

He closed with a triple Lutz, triple toe combination and scored 101.45 points – breaking his own ISU world record.

Hanyu's free program, skated to the Romeo and Juliet soundtrack, was not the cleanest.

The Japanese received deductions for falls on his opening quadruple Salchow and a later triple flip.

He was also marked down on his triple Lutz, half loop, triple Salchow attempt.

However, he was still the top scorer in the segment, with his 178.64 points – despite his two-point penalties for the falls – outscoring Chan by 0.54 points.

With Plushenko withdrawing from the competition before it began, Chan was Hanyu's biggest challenge, and the Japanese had clearly outdone his Canadian counterpart.

At just 19 years old, Hanyu had become Olympic champion – the first Asian to win men's singles gold.

It was also Japan's only gold of Sochi 2014, and their second-ever figure skating Olympic title.

After the Games

After a big celebration in Sendai, Hanyu went on to the World Championships, which were also held on home ice in Japan.

He only finished third in the short program there, but staged an impressive comeback in the free to win his first world title.

In 2014, Hanyu became the first man since Alexei Yagudin in 2002 to win the Grand Prix Final, Olympic Games, and World Championships title in the same year.

He would go on to defend his Olympic crown in 2018 and remains one of the favourites for Beijing 2022.

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