Sakamoto Kaori’s impressive 2023-24 season culminated in her receiving the prestigious Skater of the Year award at the Japan Skating Federation awards ceremony held on Wednesday. She made history by becoming the first woman since Peggy Fleming in 1968 to win the World Figure Skating Championships three years in a row, tying the record for most victories by a Japanese female alongside Asada Mao.
Sakamoto’s impressive performance was not limited to her World Championships success. She also achieved her first Grand Prix Final victory in Beijing in December and secured her third consecutive title at the Japanese nationals. Her impressive showing in Montreal, where she won all seven competitions she entered this season, further solidified her status as a top figure skater.
As she gears up for the challenges of the 2024-25 season, Sakamoto is determined to focus on laying a strong foundation for the Olympics rather than solely aiming for more titles. Recognizing the significance of the season preceding the Olympics, she is committed to working harder than ever and refining her skills to be at her best when the time comes.
Expressing her joy at receiving the Skater of the Year award, Sakamoto stated that her goal for the season was to win both the World championships and the nationals for the third time, which she successfully accomplished. Looking ahead to Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, Sakamoto emphasized