Alysa Liu and Ilia Malinin were back on the Olympic ice recently, creating unforgettable memories. Both skaters participated in a celebratory exhibition gala alongside over 40 other Olympic figure skaters. This event is a beautiful way to wrap up competitions and applaud the sport itself.
Malinin skated to “Fear” by NF, a song that dives into the struggles of mental health and the pressure athletes face. His performance was powerful. Dressed in a grey hoodie and frayed jeans, he expressed feelings of anxiety and the noise of social media criticism. He even pretended to scroll through his phone, showing how overwhelming expectations can be. Despite his free skate performance falling short, where he did not make the podium, the crowd cheered when he landed an impressive quadruple jump and his signature backflip.
In contrast, Liu’s journey has been more triumphant. After stepping away from skating due to burnout post-2022 Beijing Games, she made a remarkable return by securing gold in both the team and individual events. Her performance, set to “Stateside” by Zara Larsson and PinkPantheress, radiated joy. Liu’s success showcases not only her talent but the importance of mental well-being in sports.
Historically, sports events have often reflected the pressures athletes face. In the past, champions like Michael Phelps have spoken about their struggles with mental health. Data from the 2021 Mental Health in Sport report found that nearly 45% of athletes experience significant anxiety. This trend underscores that mental health awareness is becoming increasingly critical in sports.
The exhibition included an intriguing opening act by Carolina Kostner, who won bronze in the 2014 Winter Games. Her performance featured a 3D projection that beautifully illustrated the athlete’s journey from novice to elite.
Amber Glenn, another standout at the gala, delivered a stellar routine to Lady Gaga’s “That’s Life.” After recovering from a mistake in her earlier performance, Glenn proved that resilience is key in sports.
In today’s world, social media plays a huge role in how athletes are perceived and the pressures they face. Engaging online can amplify stress, making events like these exhibitions vital for both the athletes’ mental health and the audience’s enjoyment.
For more insights on the intersection of sports and mental health, you can check out this report from the American Psychological Association. It is essential to recognize not only the physical talents of athletes but also the emotional and psychological battles they navigate.
