Sakamoto Kaori had an outstanding 2023-24 season as she was named Skater of the Year at the Japan Skating Federation awards ceremony. The 24-year-old achieved a historic feat by becoming the first woman since Peggy Fleming in 1968 to win the World Figure Skating Championships for three consecutive years, tying Asada Mao for the most victories by a Japanese female.
Sakamoto’s recent triumph in Montreal marked her seventh win in as many competitions this season, capping off her exceptional year. She expressed her happiness at accomplishing her goals for the season and emphasized the importance of the upcoming 2024-25 season, which will be crucial as it precedes the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Sakamoto aims to use the next season to build momentum for the Olympics and is focused on continued hard work and improvement to prepare for the challenge ahead.
In addition to her impressive achievements on the ice, Sakamoto also clinched her third successive title at the Japanese nationals and made history by becoming the first woman since Peggy Fleming in 1968 to win the World Figure Skating Championships for three consecutive years, tying Asada Mao for the most victories by a Japanese female. Her recent triumph in Beijing marked her first Grand Prix Final, further solidifying her status as one of skating’s top athletes.
