In the world of figure skating, few moves create as much buzz as Ilia Malinin’s backflip. Known as the “Quad God” for his incredible jumps, Malinin’s latest trick wowed fans at the Olympics.
This Olympic debut of the backflip is historic. It’s been 50 years since anyone legally landed one at the Olympics. Malinin introduced his backflip to the Olympic stage after the International Skating Union lifted its ban on the move in 2024. Before that, the last skater to land a backflip in competition was Terry Kubicka, who did it in 1976 but faced controversy and a subsequent ban due to safety concerns. Kubicka recalls how the judges weren’t sure how to score a backflip, leading to uncertainty in the sport.
After Kubicka’s performance, the backflip was banned, but skaters like Scott Hamilton continued to use it in exhibitions, keeping its spirit alive. Fast forward to the 1998 Olympics, when French skater Surya Bonaly famously landed a backflip during her routine, even though it was illegal. Bonaly’s defiant act showcased her determination and left a lasting legacy, especially as one of the few Black athletes in a predominantly white sport. She reflected later on her pride in making history, saying she appreciates her actions more now than ever.
The backflip made its comeback in a big way. In 2024, French skater Adam Siao Him Fa executed one at the European Championships and again at the World Championships, securing a medal even with a point deduction for the illegal move at the time. His bravery and skill echoed Malinin’s spirited approach to breaking boundaries in the sport.
Recently, the International Skating Union officially lifted the ban on the backflip, stating it adds excitement and is now safe for competition. Skaters can showcase the backflip without penalty, though it doesn’t count toward technical scores. It can, however, enhance a skater’s artistic impression, which is invaluable for their confidence.
Young skaters are inspired by this resurgence. For instance, Will Annis, a rising star in U.S. skating, happily discusses how the crowd reacts to his backflip, which he says is easier than some more complicated moves. He learned the backflip only after seeing Siao Him Fa perform it, showcasing how one skater’s move can inspire the next generation.
As trends in skating evolve, the backflip symbolizes not just skill, but also a shift toward embracing daring creativity in the sport. It opens doors for more dramatic performances, attracting not only devoted figure skating fans but also those who might not typically follow the sport. This evolution keeps the excitement alive and pushes skaters to new heights.
For more in-depth information about figure skating’s evolving practices, check out this article on the return of the backflip.
