Maxim Naumov honors his late parents with emotional Winter Olympic free skate after tragic plane crash in the United States

For 24-year-old U.S. figure skater Maxim Naumov, Friday night’s Winter Olympic free skate was about much more than medals.

The program marked a deeply emotional return to the ice after the tragic loss of his parents, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who died last year in the crash of American Airlines Flight 5342 into a military helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport.

Despite finishing 20th overall, Naumov said the journey to the Olympic stage was itself the achievement.

“To be honest, I just feel proud,” he told reporters. “Getting up every day when I didn’t want to, pushing through the difficult times and the uncertainty—it’s indescribable.

There were mistakes today, but I’m just happy and proud to be standing here.”

A Tragic Loss That Shaped His Journey

Naumov’s parents, both former world pairs champions, introduced him to skating and remained central to his development until their deaths.

The couple, who also coached young skaters, were among 67 people killed when their flight crashed into the Potomac River.

The plane carried many members of the tight-knit figure skating community.

Naumov had placed fourth at the U.S. National Championships in Wichita, Kansas, before returning home to the Boston area, while his parents stayed behind for a youth development camp.

Their Olympic history—fifth at Albertville 1992 and fourth at Lillehammer 1994—was a motivating force in Naumov’s own Olympic ambitions.

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Skating Through Grief

During his performance, Naumov held a photo of his parents close, kissing it after his score was announced.

He described his weekly rituals of remembrance, from looking at photos to talking about his parents, as therapeutic.

“It’s a way to have that space with them, in whatever capacity that might be,” he said.

He also carries personal reminders of his parents: a gold chain from his b

aptism and a white gold ring with a diamond that once belonged to his father.

“Parts of life are difficult, but sharing this story is a privilege,” Naumov said.

“Not only do my parents deserve the recognition, but it can inspire others to know that no matter what, there is a way.”

Olympic Challenges and Team USA

Naumov’s teammate, Ilia Malinin, who was a favorite for gold, also struggled in the free skate, finishing eighth after a collapse.

The U.S. figure skating team faced a challenging competition overall, but Naumov’s performance stood out for its emotional weight and resilience.

What’s Next?

Naumov’s Olympic journey doesn’t end here.

While he may not have medaled, he plans to continue competing internationally and using his platform to honor his parents’ legacy.

His story is expected to resonate with young athletes and skating fans alike, highlighting perseverance in the face of personal tragedy.

Summary

U.S. figure skater Maxim Naumov competed in his Winter Olympic debut just over a year after losing his parents, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, in a tragic plane crash.

Despite finishing 20th, Naumov delivered a deeply emotional performance, holding a photo of his parents and paying tribute to their legacy as world pairs champions.

He continues to draw strength from personal mementos and weekly acts of remembrance, inspiring others through his resilience and dedication to the sport.