Key Highlights
- Watanabe Rinka leads in the short program of Skate America 2025 with a score of 74.35.
- Alya Liu trails by just 0.62 points after scoring 73.73, aiming for her first Grand Prix title.
- Lara Naki Gutmann from Italy rounds out the top three with a score of 69.69.
- Watanabe is competing in pursuit of her second Grand Prix title at Skate Canada in 2022.
The Skating Competition: Watanabe Rinka Takes Lead
Nick McCarvel reports from Lake Placid, New York, where the women’s short program of Skate America 2025 concluded on November 15. The competition featured a thrilling performance by Japanese skater Watanabe Rinka, who used her massive triple Axel to secure first place with a score of 74.35. Her closest competitor was world champion Alya Liu from the United States, who managed a score of 73.73.
The scores indicate a tight race for positions that could lead to qualification for next month’s Grand Prix Final in Nagoya, Japan. Additionally, both skaters have already medalled at this season’s Cup of China, adding further weight to their competition dynamics.
Watanabe’s Triumph and Future Plans
Rinka Watanabe, 23 years old, expressed satisfaction with her performance. “I was able to put out what I do in practice, so I was happy with that,” she stated through an interpreter. Rinka is eyeing a second Grand Prix title after winning on debut at Skate Canada in 2022. She intends for the triple Axel to be a key element in her performance throughout this season.
Rinka also mentioned the psychological aspect of performing the triple Axel, noting that it has become more consistent over time due to repetition and practice. “It’s all about repetition; the more you keep doing it, the better it is,” she elaborated. Rinka aims to secure a spot among Japan’s three Olympic quota places for 2026 Milano Cortina Games.
Alya Liu’s Emotion and Future Programs
Alya Liu, 20 years old, from the United States, showcased her “Promise” short program, which she carried over from last season. She revealed that the performance always feels fresh to her, despite its timelessness. However, Liu faced a minor setback with an under-rotation on the back half of her triple Lutz-triple loop combination, yet she managed to recover gracefully.
Liu is aiming for her first Grand Prix title and has returned to both of her Worlds-winning programs from last season, although she mentioned considering switching to a Lady Gaga-themed free skate after this event. Despite the emotional undercurrents, Liu maintained a positive outlook on her performance: “It always feels fresh,” she said. “It’s pretty timeless.” Liu is also a front-runner for the U.S. women’s selection alongside two-time and reigning U.S. champion Amber Glenn.
Other Notable Performances
The top five skaters after the short program included Anastasiia Gubanova from Georgia with a score of 68.07, followed by Kim Chaeyeon from South Korea with 67.28. Both of these skaters added depth to the competition, offering varied performances that kept the crowd engaged and interested.
The packed arena witnessed passionate support for Liu throughout her performance. “It always feels fresh,” she repeated, indicating the enduring appeal of her chosen program. The atmosphere was electric as spectators cheered loudly during key moments in her routine.
Final Thoughts
The short program at Skate America 2025 showcased intense competition and high-level performances from top skaters. With less than a month until the Grand Prix Final, the tension is palpable as both Watanabe and Liu prepare to enhance their programs for the next leg of the competition.
