Photos show ‘Quad God’ Ilia Malinin fall as he fails to win gold - AP News
AP News
February 14, 2026
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Photos reveal the dramatic downfall of figure skating prodigy Ilia Malinin as he failed to secure gold at a major competition. Known as the "Quad God" for his groundbreaking quadruple jumps, Malinin stumbled during his performance, leaving many fans and experts surprised. Despite his immense skill and innovation in the sport, a fall midway through his routine ultimately cost him the top spot. The incident highlights the high stakes and pressure faced by elite athletes on the world stage.
Ilia Malinin's rise to fame has been nothing short of extraordinary. A 19-year-old from Estonia, Malinin has redefined figure skating with his technical brilliance. His ability to land difficult quad jumps, which are notoriously challenging even for senior skaters, has earned him widespread acclaim. However, the competition in question marked a significant moment where his flawless execution was interrupted by an unexpected fall. This stumble not only affected his score but also shifted attention to other competitors, ultimately leading to his silver medal finish.
The outcome of Malinin's performance sparked mixed reactions among fans and commentators. While many expressed disappointment for the young skater, they also praised his maturity and sportsmanship after the event.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/14/2026