World Figure Skating Championships 2008 – The meanings of fourth place for Daisuke & Yukari

I was soooooo disappointed with what happened to Daisuke at the game this year…

Daisuke was the favourite of this year’s championships, and that’s why his fans, including me, are so suffering with the result. Perhaps our expectation was a heavy burden on him. Anyway the result almost broke our hearts. He wasn’t defeated by anybody but himself, his nervousness, his too strong will for winning the gold.

Throughout this season, he has proved himself to be an extraordinary skater, being so artistic and dignifying. He seemed almost invincible, even though he still had some weaknesses such as spins. His short programme for this season, the hip hop version of Swan Lake, would arguably one of the most legendary programmes in the figure skating history, as well as his last year’s free programme The Phantom of the Opera.

It might be too early for him to become the world champion. He might need to get even stronger in order to win the gold, not only at the world but also in Vancouver…

Despite what I’ve been saying, I’m really happy that Jeff won this time. He absolutely deserves it with his magnificent skating skills and musicality. I was also impressed by Brian who nearly defended the title with his masculinity and strong will power. Even Johnny, who isn’t my particular favourite, impressed me with the fact that he didn’t allow himself to fall over but stayed in control on the ice. It was a beautiful game in the sense that those who had suffered from illness or injuries did overcome their problems and finally shined radiantly.

Daisuke’s fourth place was, in a way, inevitable. He deserved it with such an imperfect performance. Jeff, Brian and Johnny did simply better than him this time. Simple enough. But he should do better next time, and he can! We know that he’s one of the best skaters in the world, but he needs to prove it.

Yukari’s fourth place in the ladies was also disappointing, but in her case, she deserved better… Even though there is a good reason for her jumps to be downgraded (even her precious and uncompromised triple axel), we can’t be reasoned about why she wasn’t allow to stand on the podium. She was the one who won the audiences’ hearts, praises and standing ovation this year. It’s still a crucial improvement for her to get fourth, as she has remained fifth for 2 years. But her self-discipline, hard work and, among others, stage presence should have been paid off. She should have become a medalist at this game. I hope she will be rewarded next time…

I’m also sorry for Miki. She just needs a break. In other words, I hope the only thing she needs is a break and she will come back as the strongest contender as a ‘lady’ skater among those teenagers (I like Yuna, though).

As for ice dancing, I’m so glad that Isabelle & Olivier finally won! Congratulations!