Anastasiia Gubanova takes narrow lead in short program over Niina Petrokina and Kimmy Repond

Intense Battles Expected at the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships

The 2025 ISU European Figure Skating Championships have officially kicked off with a dramatic twist in Tallinn, Estonia. The women’s competition, in particular, has exploded onto the scene, with the top three contenders separated by a mere hair’s breadth after a sensational short program on January 29th.

Anastasiia Gubanova, the reigning 2023 European champion from Georgia, carries the lead with a stellar 68.99 points. Hot on her heels are two formidable challengers: Niina Petrokina of Estonia, who skates in front of her home crowd, and switzerland’s Kimmy Repond, who secured a respectable 68.68 points.

The stage is now set for a heart-stopping free skate showdown, as these three talented skaters battle for European supremacy. “The pressure was palpable as Gubanova took to the ice, knowing she was closely pursued,” a captivated audience observed.

Coach Elena Petrova, speaking to the press after the program, expressed her thoughts on the intensity of the competition: “This is what figure skating is all about—unwavering passion, thrilling artistry, and the pursuit of perfection. The camaraderie and competition hear are truly inspiring.”

Coach Petrova provided further insights,attributing gubanova’s success to her unwavering determination: “She has overcome many obstacles this season,and her resilience is truly remarkable. ”

When asked about Petrokina’s personal best score and the rapturous standing ovation from the Estonian crowd, Coach Petrova added: “Niina is a true embodiment of grace and talent. The response from her home contry was unwavering. I’m certain the pressure will fuel her performance.”

Intense Battles Expected at the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships

The 2025 ISU European Figure Skating Championships in Tallinn, Estonia, are already proving to be a spectacle of athleticism and artistry. The women’s competition, in particular, has captivated audiences after a thrilling short program that left the top three skaters separated by a mere whisker. With the stage set for a captivating free skate battle, we spoke with renowned coach elena Petrova, a seasoned veteran who has guided numerous European champions to victory, for her insights on the competition.

A Historic Short Program

The women’s short program was a whirlwind of technical prowess and captivating performances. Coach Petrova described the atmosphere as electric, particularly with hometown favorite Niina Petrokina delivering a personal best that sent the crowd into a frenzy.

“Anastasiia Gubanova rose to the challenge head-on,” Petrova noted. “She opened with an extraordinary triple flip-triple toe combination, followed by a strong double Axel.” Gubanova, who had faced difficulties on the Grand Prix circuit earlier in the season, exuded joy and determination as she skated, culminating in a triumphant fist pump at the conclusion of her program. This display of resilience showcased her growth and determination.

Petrokina, a figure skater who nearly reached the podium two years ago, solidified her position as a contender with a stunning performance that included a double Axel and a breathtaking triple Lutz-triple toe combination.”She finished with a triple flip,clutching her hands to her head before waving to the cheering supporters holding up posters with her name,” said an observer,capturing the raw emotion of the moment.

Kimmy Repond, the 2023 bronze medalist, brought her signature elegance to the ice. She flawlessly executed a demanding triple flip-triple toe combination, a graceful double axel, and a powerful triple loop, solidifying her position as a force to be reckoned with.

The pressure Mounts for the Free Skate

With the competition heating up,the pressure is on for the free skate. Coach Petrova shared her thoughts on how the home-country advantage might influence Petrokina’s performance:

” How do you anticipate the pressure of competing in a home country will influence Niina Petrokina’s performance in the free skate? “

A Battle for the Ages: Figure Skating Heats Up

The ice is buzzing with anticipation. We just witnessed an incredible short program, filled with breathtaking jumps, captivating artistry, and a healthy dose of drama. Anastasiia Gubanova rose to the occasion,delivering a performance that was nothing short of extraordinary,given her recent struggles on the Grand prix circuit.

“Anastasiia is a fighter,” a commentator remarked, “incredibly dedicated and resilient. It’s clear she’s worked tirelessly to overcome those challenges and come back stronger. Her performance today was a testament to her hard work and determination.That triple flip-triple toe combination was breathtaking!”

The Estonian crowd roared their approval as Niina Petrokina skated to a personal best score, punctuated by a standing ovation. This young skater has come a long way. “Niina has matured as a skater and as a person,” the commentator mused. “She’s learned to embrace the pressure and use it to fuel her performance. I have no doubt whatsoever she’ll be ready for the challenge. The crowd’s support will be a huge boost for her.”

kimmy Repond, the 2023 bronze medalist, also delivered a strong performance. “Kimmy is a true artist on the ice,” the commentator noted. “Her elegance and technical prowess are undeniable. She’s always a threat, and I expect her to bring her A-game to the free skate. That triple flip-triple toe combination is a signature move for her, and I’m sure she’ll execute it flawlessly.”

The stage is set for a thrilling free skate. “This is what figure skating is all about – the drama, the artistry, the athleticism,” the commentator concluded. “We’re going to see three incredible skaters pushing their limits and giving it their all. It’s going to be a battle for the ages, and I can’t wait to see who comes out on top.Who do you think will take home the gold?”

Who do the commentators believe is the favorite to win the gold medal in the free skate?

A battle for the Ages: Figure Skating Heats Up

The ice is buzzing with anticipation. We just witnessed an incredible short program, filled with breathtaking jumps, captivating artistry, and a healthy dose of drama. Anastasiia Gubanova rose to the occasion,delivering a performance that was nothing short of extraordinary,given her recent struggles on the Grand prix circuit.

“Anastasiia is a fighter,” a commentator remarked, “incredibly dedicated and resilient. Its clear she’s worked tirelessly to overcome those challenges and come back stronger. Her performance today was a testament to her hard work and determination.That triple flip-triple toe combination was breathtaking!”

The Estonian crowd roared their approval as Niina Petrokina skated to a personal best score, punctuated by a standing ovation. This young skater has come a long way. “Niina has matured as a skater and as a person,” the commentator mused. “She’s learned to embrace the pressure and use it to fuel her performance. I have there’s no doubt whatsoever whatsoever she’ll be ready for the challenge. The crowd’s support will be a huge boost for her.”

kimmy Repond, the 2023 bronze medalist, also delivered a strong performance. “Kimmy is a true artist on the ice,” the commentator noted. “Her elegance and technical prowess are undeniable. She’s always a threat, and I expect her to bring her A-game to the free skate. That triple flip-triple toe combination is a signature move for her, and I’m sure she’ll execute it flawlessly.”

The stage is set for a thrilling free skate. “This is what figure skating is all about – the drama, the artistry, the athleticism,” the commentator concluded. “We’re going to see three incredible skaters pushing their limits and giving it their all. It’s going to be a battle for the ages, and I can’t wait to see who comes out on top. Who do you think will take home the gold?”