Miura and Kihara announce retirement from competitive skating

Japan’s historic pair team of Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara has announced their retirement from competitive figure skating, bringing an end to one of the most successful partnerships in the sport’s modern era.

The reigning Olympic champions confirmed that they will step away from competition at the conclusion of the 2025–26 season, closing a chapter defined by groundbreaking achievements and resilience.

A historic Olympic triumph

Miura and Kihara made history at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, capturing Japan’s first-ever gold medal in pairs figure skating. Their victory was especially memorable for the way it unfolded: after placing fifth in the short program, the duo delivered a stunning free skate that set a world-record score under the current judging system.

“I honestly have nothing but words of gratitude,” said Kihara after the Olympic free skate. “Yesterday, we thought a comeback was still possible. The encouragement of those words helped me turn my mindset forward. I’m truly thankful to everyone.”

That comeback performance not only secured the Olympic title but also cemented their reputation as one of the most emotionally compelling teams in the sport.

Beyond their Olympic success, the pair amassed an impressive résumé that include: two Olympic team event silver medals (2022 and 2026), multiple World medals (2025, 2024, 2023, and 2022), and two Four Continents gold medals (2025 and 2023).

A partnership built on trust and perseverance

Since teaming up in 2019, Miura and Kihara quickly rose through the ranks to become pioneers for Japanese pair skating—a discipline traditionally dominated by North American and European teams.

Their journey was not without setbacks. Both skaters battled injuries in recent seasons, including recurring shoulder issues for Miura and back problems for Kihara. Yet their ability to overcome adversity became a defining feature of their career, culminating in their emotional Olympic victory.

Their connection on and off the ice also stood out. Miura had previously expressed that she would not continue in the sport with another partner, underscoring the unique bond that defined their success.

Looking ahead

In announcing their retirement, the pair reflected on their career with pride, noting they had given everything to the sport and had no regrets. They also indicated a desire to remain involved in figure skating, particularly in helping to grow pair skating in Japan.

Their departure marks the end of a transformative era. Miura and Kihara not only achieved unprecedented success for Japan but also inspired a new generation of skaters to consider pairs skating as a viable and exciting path.

As they step away from competition, their legacy is already secure—defined by historic milestones, emotional performances, and a partnership that reshaped the landscape of the discipline.

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