The Backflip Returns 

After nearly 50 years, the backflip is legal again at the 2026 Winter Olympics men’s figure skating event — and it’s already making history. 

Malinin’s Historic Moment 

Ilia Malinin landed the first legal Olympic backflip — and he’s the only skater to ever land a quadruple Axel in competition. 

The Gold Medal Battle 

🇺🇸 Ilia Malinin – Leader 🇯🇵 Yuma Kagiyama – 103.07 🇫🇷 Adam Siao Him Fa – 102.55

Alysa Liu, Amber Glenn, Chock & Bates, Isabeau Levito — America’s deepest Olympic skating squad ever. 

Team USA’s Dream Depth 

Why 2026 Feels Different

Quad Axel Revolution ✔ Backflip Legalized ✔ Artistic Freedom ✔ Athlete Identity & Power 

Will Malinin Attempt the Quad Axel? 

One jump. Four and a half rotations. Olympic glory on the line.