“Rikuryu” — the figure skating pair of Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara — captured the gold medal at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, completing a remarkable career Grand Slam. But their path was not without challenges. After reaching the pinnacle of the sport, they faced a second major test: finding motivation and purpose beyond winning. The pair, known for their resilience, has now embraced a new mindset centered on enjoyment rather than pressure.
Over the course of seven years, Miura and Kihara built a bond that carried them through injuries, the pandemic, and intense competition. Their golden season in Milan came after they had already won world championships and Grand Prix titles. Yet rather than resting on their laurels, they encountered a fresh hurdle — the emotional and physical toll of sustaining excellence. In interviews, both have spoken about transforming their approach, focusing on the joy of skating and performing together.
The duo’s journey has inspired fans across Japan and beyond. From early struggles to Olympic glory, Rikuryu’s story is one of perseverance and evolution. Now, as they look ahead, they aim to promote pair skating and share their love for the sport, all while savoring every moment on the ice.
