[2025.02.25] GOETHE April 2025 issue

Athletes who challenge the limits of human potential—there is a world that can only be seen because they continue to push their bodies and minds to the very edge. Beyond competition, there are untold stories of their lives behind the scenes. This is an irregular series, "The Moving Spirit of Athletes," which delves into these moments. What is the essence of Yuzuru Hanyu?

Spoiler

Why Does Hanyu Keep Raising the Bar for Himself?

Japan’s national figure skater, Yuzuru Hanyu, continues to break new barriers one after another. Beginning with GIFT at the Tokyo Dome in February 2023, he took on the role of executive producer for his ice stories, successfully completing RE_PRAY as the second installment in 2023, and most recently, Echoes of Life this month. At the heart of his performances lies a profound theme—a prayer for life, shaped by his own extraordinary journey. Through various artistic techniques, he challenges audiences with deep, philosophical questions.

Whenever you step into his performances, you find Hanyu skating with all his heart and soul. His latest work, Echoes of Life, just completed its seven-show run, with a script written entirely by Hanyu himself. Set in a virtual world, the story explores the meaning of life through a protagonist encountering various "sounds."

"This time, the performance is quite serious, and the message itself is quite strong. The script is quite complex, and to be honest, you can't understand it just by listening to it once," he admits. The overarching theme is philosophical, suggesting that what seems like a series of coincidences is actually fate. To convey such a heavy theme, the most essential element isn’t elaborate stage props but his own body and technique. That determination infuses his performance with intensity.

"You can’t fully absorb the script just by reading it once. It might only convey a vague impression at first. That’s why the tension in my performance is absolutely necessary. If I had simply pursued an entertaining, crowd-pleasing approach, the structure of this ice story would have completely fallen apart," he reflects.

One of the show’s highlights was his performance of Ballade No.1, with the same technical layout as his short program from the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, where he won his second Olympic gold. It was a very challenging performance composition, with a triple axel jump and a quadruple-triple toe loop jump in the second half of the performance. He skated with his whole being, matching his movements to classical piano and various musical genres. But why does Hanyu continue to set his own bar so high?

"Even when I give my all, Ballade No.1 is nearly out of reach. It’s incredibly difficult, and back at the PyeongChang Olympics, I managed to pull it off in that one crucial performance. But performing such a difficult program after already skating for about 30 minutes (from the start of the show) was, to be honest, even for me it was almost impossible, or rather quite difficult."

Even when he feels like giving in, he believes that only by confronting his limits head-on can he create something truly compelling.

"But when I reach for it with everything I have, focusing completely and putting my whole heart into it, I feel like that’s where the true flame of life exists. I think that is something essential to my Ice Story, as an expression of art x sports," he states with conviction.

Even after stepping away from competitive skating and entering the professional world, Hanyu remains as uncompromising as ever. Because he pursues his present with such sincerity, he continues to inspire people. In a world overflowing with information, where it’s easy to fall into the illusion that answers are readily available, listening honestly to one’s own heart is more difficult than ever. The message Hanyu wants to convey to people living in modern society is simple.

"If you're engrossed in something, time will pass before you know it. If you do nothing, time will also pass before you know it. Don’t have regrets. The things that you think of, the ideas that come to you in the moment, act on them. Cherish the present."

Make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. What seems simple is, in truth, one of life’s greatest challenges. But in that challenge lies the key to living life the way we want to.

Wintek · February 24

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

2025.02.25

GOETHE, April issue:
https://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/B0D9JVZ7TG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_d_asin_title_351_o00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yuzuru Hanyu Special 30th Birthday Edition
Challenging a New Self

COVER STORY (p. 015)

The cover shoot took place at a studio in Sendai, Yuzuru Hanyu’s hometown. That day, he had multiple media shoots, with ours being the last. Despite how tired he must have been, he arrived at the studio with a deep bow, saying, “Thank you for waiting! I look forward to working with you!” His thoughtfulness was enough to capture everyone’s hearts.

The shoot lasted for quite some time, as it covered 20 pages. What truly impressed the editorial team was his incredible focus and how remarkably fast he adapted to the photographer’s requests. He would absorb each request in an instant and transform it into an expression that far exceeded our expectations. In the photos, he holds his own pair of skates—a moment that beautifully reflects his deep love for figure skating.

When the shoot was over, he once again gave a deep bow and said, “Thank you very much! Great work, everyone!” before swiftly exiting the studio. Without thinking, the entire team burst into applause.

Challenging a New Self

Yuzuru Hanyu Special 30th Birthday Edition (p. 087)

On December 7, 2024, Yuzuru Hanyu turned 30. Even now, he continues to train more rigorously than when he won Olympic gold.

What lies at the core of a man who constantly strives to evolve? We explore his philosophy, beliefs, and unwavering drive.

Spoiler

Special Interview Part 1

"I decided to stay true to what I believe in."

Yuzuru Hanyu at 30: Where He Stands Today

There is no need for empty praise when speaking of Yuzuru Hanyu, a national icon in figure skating. It has been about two and a half years since he announced his professional transition in July 2022. Since then, he has served as the executive producer of his self-created “Ice Story” series, starting with his solo Tokyo Dome performance GIFT, followed by RE_PRAY and ECHOES OF LIFE. The fulfillment that comes from overcoming such grand challenges must be unparalleled. He reflects on his journey with calm determination.

“It’s both—challenging and fulfilling. Stepping into a world of complete freedom also comes with its own constraints, and I’ve had to confront the limits of my abilities, figure out what path to pursue, and constantly reach out, searching for answers. But I feel like I’ve finally begun to grasp certain things—this third year has been about refining everything I’ve learned. The connection between the visuals, projections, and storytelling has deepened significantly.

It’s like… when I think about it, I’ve been reaching beyond just skating, absorbing so many things with all my might. And now, those branches, those roots, are finally starting to form a real trunk.”

Stepping into the space where Hanyu performs is an experience that naturally straightens one’s posture, as if drawn into a sense of reverence. The overarching theme of his Ice Stories is the meaning of life itself. With his entire being, he embodies profound philosophical questions and presents them to modern society.

“I’ve always wondered about the meaning of my own existence. From the moment we’re born, we’re already given a name—we’ve already begun living. One of my earliest memories is realizing that I could blink on my own. That night, as I went to sleep, I thought, ‘What if everything until now was just a dream? What if I wake up tomorrow and find myself a baby again?’

Life is something we can’t quite grasp. We can’t even prove that our own existence is real. Because life is so intangible, I hope my performances can serve as a moment for people to reflect—an opportunity to think about what life means to them.”

Embracing Encounters as a Path Forward

His artistic choices reflect his unwavering pride in his craft. He doesn’t conform to expectations—he listens honestly to the voice within and translates that into his performances. One example he brings up is RE_PRAY, the show he staged last year, which used the structure of a video game to explore the choices and destinies we face in life.

“Honestly, if I were picking music purely for the audience who have supported me since my competitive days, I think I should have stuck to classical pieces. But I made a conscious decision to stay true to what I believe in, which is why I chose to showcase game music.

As a result, people who love video games, and even those who had never been interested in figure skating before, started wanting to see what I was doing. It helped expand the reach of my work. I don’t just want to chase new things—I want to use music that I genuinely love, that truly moves me. And I hope that when people who love the original music see my performance, they’ll not only feel the respect I have for it but also experience it as an original piece of entertainment by Yuzuru Hanyu.”

In ECHOES OF LIFE, which concluded in February, he used a wide range of movement styles—piano-based skating, contemporary dance, hip-hop—to convey the idea that a series of chance events can ultimately shape our fate.

“I’ve gradually realized that, with the right combination of technique and creativity, there are a lot of things that can actually be done on the ice. I worked hard to take movements I learned on land and incorporate them into my skating. At the core of it all, I constantly think about what it is I want to express—and how I can bring that to life through figure skating.”

As for what’s next, he doesn’t shy away from sharing his uncertainties. Even as he stands in a league of his own, his genuine, human side is what makes him so captivating.

“I can feel my options gradually narrowing. I mean, how many things in life can you truly be passionate about?

For me, it’s been figure skating, video games, manga, anime... but there aren’t that many things. So, while I do take in other people’s perspectives and think, ‘Oh, that’s actually great,’ I also wonder if turning 30 will lead me to develop new interests or a different sense of taste.

In the end, maybe the right path is simply to let encounters guide me—to embrace the moment and see where it leads.”

Special Interview Part 2 (p. 099–101)

“I have a deep conviction that everything I’ve done is sports.”

At the Core: Being an Athlete – “Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu”

Unraveling “the Profession: Yuzuru Hanyu”:
What comes through in every phrase is his uncompromising attitude of never cutting corners in his work to impress. His unwavering belief in figure skating underpins the tension and intensity of his performances.

“When I first announced my professional transition, I said one thing: that I am an athlete. Figure skating, while inherently an artistic sport, is a discipline in which the athletic aspect makes up about 80 percent. Without strength, you can’t skate; without technique, you can’t even complete a quadruple jump. (In my Ice Story shows,) to try to perform two quadruple jumps after skating for about 30 minutes was nearly impossible.

Continuing as a pro, the most important thing for me is not to become so enamored with art that I forget I’m an athlete. I have always been proud of the fact that what I do is sports. I want to keep combining the raw power and inspiration I get from sports with the emotional impact of art—that is the very core of my conviction.”

When people recall Yuzuru from his competitive days, they picture someone driven by an insatiable hunger for victory—a raw, unfiltered intensity. That hasn’t changed, but if there is any evolution, it’s in the very definition of “victory” and “beauty.”

“Every time I design my performance, I think ‘this is impossible’—in the best way. In the past, my goal was simply to win, to be champion. Now, my challenge is to execute my planned structure perfectly. If I can’t pull it off, that means I’ve lost. If I do it flawlessly, it’s my victory. Since an Ice Story show isn’t a one-day event, knowing that I must deliver a perfect, mistake‐free performance each time gives me a renewed motivation. For me, it’s all about turning the impossible into possible.”

How does one maintain such a high “basal level” of effort? His approach to goal-setting encapsulates the essence of an elite athlete:

“Setting goals in life is incredibly difficult. When goals are close at hand, it’s easier to succeed—but at that level you don’t feel a strong sense of self-efficacy. On the other hand, if your goal is too far away, you’re hit with only endless hardship. But for me, I believe that the more distant the goal, the more I can find joy in enduring the struggles along the way.”

Relentlessly searching, with genuine commitment, for what holds true value…

Although his record boasts two consecutive Olympic golds and countless glorious moments, behind that shine lies an accumulation of innumerable failures and experiments. The wellspring of his fighting spirit—the reason he keeps rising after hitting a wall—stems from witnessing the relentless efforts of those rebuilding after the devastating Great East Japan Earthquake.

“Humans tend to remember negative experiences far more vividly, so it’s impossible to forget failures. But every failure has a cause—perhaps a failure in setting the right goal, or maybe my effort wasn’t enough, or I applied the wrong method, or even my technical perspective was off. I keep searching, refusing to give up, because I believe that if I work hard enough to overcome these hurdles, I can make the impossible possible. Believing in that power is truly hard. But just as the people involved in the Noto region’s earthquake recovery—and even those awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts—kept their faith, I know that having witnessed 3/11 firsthand has deepened my understanding of the strength of human belief. They say if you never give up, something will eventually work out. But if you simply put in half-hearted effort, nothing will change. That’s why I work relentlessly, steadily searching for what has true value.”

More than in my competitive days, I now have more muscle, technique, and knowledge.

For me, staying at the top is a daily grind: six days a week, with over five hours of self-improvement on average.

“I train on the ice and also do about three hours of off-ice training every day. I might spend a little time tidying up, then I’m back for nearly three more hours. That part of my routine involves weight training—lifting barbells, swinging dumbbells—in the standard form of weight training. There’s really no time to relax; I don’t even get a moment of peace. I can literally see that I’m pressed for time.

I’ve come to realize that I’m not getting enough rest. I’m deliberately trying to carve out moments to rest.”

In his competitive days, he was a born fighter—a pure competitor. Now, as a professional and as a “broadcaster” of his art, he has become a solitary yet expressive artist. Devoting himself completely has become second nature, transforming him into a higher version of himself.

“To dedicate myself to figure skating, I have to consider even sleep as part of my work. Not because I’m a pro athlete per se, but because ever since my competitive days, to win an Olympic gold, I had no choice but to push myself to that extreme. That rigor has continued ever since. Honestly, now I train much harder than back then—I’m more focused, I’ve built more muscle, and I’ve acquired more technique and knowledge. It’s really fun to keep updating myself.”

Cherishing the Small Moments of Each Day

At 19, he won Olympic gold in Sochi. At 23, he defended his title in PyeongChang. In his late 20s, he challenged the unprecedented quadruple Axel and embarked on a new chapter as a professional skater. His 30 years, marked by countless legendary moments, are simply an extension of how he has always lived—giving his all to the present.

"I feel like I’ve always been completely focused on the ‘now.’ From an outside perspective, people probably think I have this unshakable core, but honestly, the thoughts and ideas surrounding that core are actually pretty fragile.

When something painful happens, when I see something unpleasant, when someone says something hurtful… It’s so easy to be shaken. And when that happens, I suddenly don’t feel like going to practice. Those moments just happen naturally. But looking back at these 30 years, I feel like I’ve always managed to cherish each of those unstable moments and keep going."

Reaching the milestone age of 30, Yuzuru describes himself as being "in his prime." His experience and perspective have broadened, and the confidence in his voice suggests a deep sense of fulfillment.

"I feel like I’ve finally reached a point where my knowledge, my imagination, and my body can reach for an even higher level. There are still so many times when my body doesn’t fully align with what I envision, but I’ve finally started to understand how to train in a way that shapes my body toward that goal.

When I set a new objective, I have a much better grasp of the path to get there. But honestly, when I turn 40, I’ll probably look back and think, ‘I didn’t understand anything back then.’ I feel like that cycle is just going to keep repeating itself."

"I Think I Have a Stronger Sense of Anticipation for Tomorrow Than Most People"

As a professional skater, what kind of future does he envision for himself? Aware of the ever-present risks of injury, he still looks forward with determination.

"I probably have much higher expectations for tomorrow than others do. That’s why I feel I need to take responsibility for my actions today—because if I don’t, tomorrow will just end up being painful.

For example, if I don’t feel well today, it’s because of something that happened yesterday. I don’t know if this is just the way an athlete thinks, but honestly, in figure skating, even if I go to practice tomorrow, there’s no guarantee I’ll be able to practice the day after that. That’s just the nature of this sport.

So I can’t really map out my future in detail, at least not in any simple way. But just like I’ve done for the past 30 years, I want to keep valuing the little moments of each day. I hope that when my future self looks back on today, I can think, ‘I really gave it my all.’ And if I can keep repeating those days, I think that would be enough."

His rich life experience fuels his deeply thoughtful mindset. And yet, he also leaves room for the unexpected. For a one-of-a-kind skater like Yuzuru Hanyu, simply walking his path with quiet confidence is, in itself, an ongoing challenge.

—--
Author: Hiroaki Yamato (大和弘明) /Born in Gunma Prefecture in 1985. After graduating from Keio University's Faculty of Economics, he joined Sports Nippon Shimbun. As an Olympic reporter, I have been reporting on Yuzuru Hanyu for over six years since October 2018.

yuzurujenn · March 1

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

2025.02.25

Source: GOETHE Apr 2025 issue, pg 15, pg 87-101
Info: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0DRNR4BX6?tag=goetheweb-22

Sample: https://digi2.fujisan.co.jp/digital/ebook-html-viewer/index.html?bid=2630011_sample&dhost=2&e_vt=3&mhost=3&uid=0&z_cry=0&z_dgmg=6f016744989122a9a4246ac8e6c187fd

GOETHE Apr 2025 issue - Yuzuru Hanyu Special 30th Birthday Edition

Cover Story

The cover shoot took place at a studio in Sendai, Yuzuru Hanyu’s hometown. That day, he had multiple media shoots, with ours scheduled last. Despite how tired he must have been, Hanyu entered the studio with a deep bow, saying, “Thank you for waiting! I look forward to working with you!” His thoughtfulness instantly captured everyone’s hearts.

The shoot spanned 20 pages and lasted for quite some time. Yet what left the editorial team in awe was his unwavering focus and astonishing ability to adapt to the photographer’s requests. He effortlessly absorbed each instruction and transformed it into expressions that far exceeded our expectations. In one of the most memorable shots, Hanyu holds his own pair of skates—a reflection of his deep love and passion for figure skating.

At the end of the shoot, he once again bowed deeply and said, “Thank you very much! Thank you for your hard work!” before swiftly leaving the studio. The entire team couldn’t help but burst into spontaneous applause.

Interview: Challenging a New Self

On December 7, 2024, professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu turned 30.
Even now, he continues to train with greater intensity than when he won his Olympic gold medals.
We delve into the mindset, beliefs, and unwavering determination at the core of a man who constantly strives to evolve and surpass himself.

Spoiler

Special Interview Part 1:

"I Decided to Stick to What I Believe Is Right"

The Current State of Yuzuru Hanyu at 30

For Yuzuru Hanyu, Japan’s national skating treasure, there’s no need for empty flattery. It has been about two and a half years since he announced his professional transition in July 2022. As the executive producer of his own ice shows, he has completed three major productions: GIFT at the Tokyo Dome, followed by RE_PRAY and ECHOES OF LIFE. These monumental achievements brought him a sense of fulfillment that could only come from overcoming such grand challenges. Reflecting on his journey, Hanyu speaks calmly:

"It was both tough and fulfilling. Being thrown into a world of freedom also brought its own kind of restrictions and made me realize my own limitations. It’s been a journey of searching, reaching out, and finally starting to understand many things by my third year as a professional. My connection to visuals, projections, and how the stories link to the programs has deepened significantly. It feels like all the efforts I’ve made beyond skating—branching out, absorbing inspiration—are finally starting to grow into a solid trunk."

Stepping into a space where Hanyu performs feels almost reverent. Through his ice stories, he tackles the profound theme of the meaning of life itself. His wholehearted performances pose philosophical questions to modern society:

"I’ve always wondered about the meaning of my own life since I was young. By the time I became aware of myself, I already had a name and was already ‘living.’ My earliest memory is realizing I could blink on my own. That night, I wondered: What if I fall asleep and wake up as a baby again? Life is so intangible—you can’t even prove your own existence. Because life is so fleeting, I hope my performances can inspire people to reflect on life and what it means to be alive."

The right thing to do is to leave it to each and every once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Hanyu’s pride in his method of expression is clear. Rather than conforming to expectations, he listens to his inner voice and translates that honesty into his performances. One example he mentions is his 2023 show RE_PRAY, which drew on video game worlds to portray the destiny that lies beyond the choices we make in life.

"Honestly, if I were choosing music just for those who supported me during my competitive career, I think I should have stuck with classical pieces. But I deliberately chose game music because I decided to stick to what I believe is good. As a result, game fans and people who hadn’t been interested in figure skating started to watch my performances, expanding the audience. Every time I create something, I want it to be something I genuinely love, something that resonates with me. I’d be happy if fans of those original works see my respect for them while also enjoying my performance as Yuzuru Hanyu’s unique form of entertainment."

His most recent show, ECHOES OF LIFE, combined piano compositions with contemporary dance and hip-hop to convey the idea that what seems like coincidence might actually be destiny.

"I’ve recently realized that with the right skills and creativity, a lot can be done even on ice. This time, I worked hard to bring movements I learned off the ice onto it. I constantly think about what I want to express at its core and try to translate that through figure skating."

When asked about future performances, Hanyu candidly admits to the uncertainties and evolving passions in his journey:

"Over time, my creative ideas may dwindle. There aren’t many things in life you can dedicate yourself to with complete passion. For me, it’s been figure skating, games, manga, and anime. But who knows? Maybe turning 30 will lead me to discover new interests. I think trusting in those chance encounters is the right approach for now."

Special Interview Part 2
"I Take Pride in the Fact That What I’ve Been Doing Is a Sport"

Being an Athlete Is My Foundation: The Profession of Yuzuru Hanyu

When breaking down what it means to be “Professional: Yuzuru Hanyu,” one thing becomes clear—he never cuts corners in creating captivating performances. His unwavering belief in figure skating as a sport underpins every intense and powerful routine.

"When I turned pro, I made it clear from the start: I am an athlete. Figure skating, while inherently an artistic sport, is a discipline in which the athletic aspect makes up about 80 percent. Without physical strength, you can't skate properly, and without technical skill, landing a quad is impossible. In Ice Story, doing two quads after skating for 30 minutes was nearly impossible. The most important thing for me as a pro is not to lean too heavily into the artistic side just because I’m no longer competing. I take great pride in the fact that what I have dedicated myself to is a sport. As an athlete, I strive for strength and the ability to inspire. I believe that my professional pride now lies in continuing to merge the inspiration drawn from the power of sports with the emotional impact of art."

When thinking of Yuzuru Hanyu during his competitive days, one imagines his hunger for victory and raw instincts on full display. While that aspect remains unchanged, what has evolved is his definition of "victory."

“Every time I create a program, I build it with the mindset that it’s impossible to complete. In a good way. Before, winning and becoming a champion was my main goal. Now, executing this program perfectly has become my challenge and my goal. If I can’t do it flawlessly, that’s my defeat. If I can, that’s my victory. Since an Ice Story performance doesn’t end in just one day, it motivates me to aim for perfection in every subsequent performance. It's like turning what I once thought was impossible into something possible within myself.”

How does he maintain such a consistently high level of motivation? The way he sets his goals reveals the essence of a truly exceptional athlete.

"Setting goals in life is very difficult. The closer the goal is, the easier it is to achieve, but the sense of accomplishment doesn't really generate a sense of self-efficacy. But if the goal is too far away, it feels unattainable, and every day just becomes a struggle. But for me, setting distant goals is more enjoyable in a sense, even if it means struggling along the way."

Searching Earnestly, Finding Value Within Himself

Despite his illustrious records, including two Olympic gold medals, behind those achievements lie countless failures and relentless trial and error. His fighting spirit, the ability to keep standing up after every setback, is rooted in witnessing the resilience of people rebuilding after the Great East Japan Earthquake—an event he experienced firsthand.

“Humans tend to remember negative experiences much more vividly, so forgetting failure is impossible. But every failure has a reason behind it. Maybe it’s because the goal-setting was wrong. But instead of giving up, I search for solutions—whether it's a lack of effort on my part, the wrong method of practicing, or even focusing on the wrong technical aspects. If I keep searching without giving up, I believe I can achieve it. It is really difficult to have the strength to believe. But like the people rebuilding from the Noto Earthquake or the Hibakusha who received the Nobel Peace Prize, I'm sure they are where they are today because they have continued to believe for so long. I experienced 3/11 firsthand, so I have a deep understanding of how powerful human belief can be. It sounds idealistic, but if you don’t give up, things will somehow work out. However, if you half-heartedly try without full commitment, nothing will change. That’s why it’s important to seriously search for what’s valuable to you and keep working on it steadily.”

I have more muscle, technique and knowledge now than I did when I was competing.

The daily routine to remain a top athlete. It was self-training six days a week, an average of more than five hours a day.

“I practice on the ice and train off-ice for about three hours every day. After a quick break, I sometimes train for another three hours, focusing on weightlifting—lifting barbells, swinging dumbbells, the typical weight training exercises. There is no time to relax. Sometimes, my exhaustion shows in my attitude. But I’ve learned to recognize when I’m pushing too hard and try to rest intentionally.”

While he was a fierce competitor during his active career, as a professional now, he’s also a solitary artist. His commitment has become second nature, and through it, he constantly transforms himself into a higher version of who he is.

“In figure skating, even sleeping needs to be considered part of your training. It wasn’t just about being a professional athlete; even during my competitive days, I had to structure my entire life around winning Olympic gold. That hasn’t changed. To be honest, I definitely practice more now than I did back then, I'm more toned, I have more muscle, and I have more technique and knowledge. It's fun to keep improving myself like that."

Valuing Every Small Moment Each Day

At 19, Hanyu won gold at the Sochi Olympics, and at 23, he achieved back-to-back victories at the PyeongChang Olympics. In his late 20s, he attempted the unprecedented quadruple Axel and made a fresh start as a professional skater. The 30 years of his life so far, marked by legendary achievements, are simply a continuation of his present, where he continues to live life to the fullest.

“I think I’ve always been fully focused on the present. From the outside, people probably think I’m someone with an incredibly strong core. But in reality, the thoughts and ideas surrounding that core can be quite fragile. When something bad happens, when I see something unpleasant, when someone says something hurtful… I waver easily. It’s easy for me to lose motivation for practice. But looking back on my 30 years, I think I’ve always managed to live through those wavering moments with care and keep going.”

Now at a pivotal age of 30, Hanyu describes himself as being "in his prime." His widened experience and perspective bring a deep sense of fulfillment.

“I finally feel like my knowledge, imagination, and physical ability are reaching a new level. There are still many times when my body doesn’t fully align with what I envision, but I've finally begun to grasp how to train in a way that moves me closer to that goal. When I set a goal, I think I have a pretty good understanding of the path to achieving it. But I'm sure when I'm 40, I'll realize that I still didn't understand anything back then. It feels like I’ll keep repeating that process forever.”

“I Probably Have a Stronger Sense of Anticipation for Tomorrow Than Most People"

How does he see himself as a professional skater moving forward? Aware of the ever-present risk of injury, his eyes remain fixed on the future.

“I think I probably have a stronger sense of anticipation for tomorrow than most people. That’s why I feel that if I don’t take responsibility for my actions today, tomorrow will only become more difficult. For example, I think my physical condition today is a direct result of what I did yesterday. I don’t know if this mindset comes from being an athlete. Honestly, in figure skating, even if I go to practice tomorrow, there’s no guarantee I’ll be able to practice the day after. So, it's not that easy to draw a blueprint for the future. But, just as I’ve worked hard for the past 30 years, I want to keep valuing the little moments of each day. I hope that when I look back tomorrow, I can think, ‘I gave it my all today.’”

A life rich in experiences has shaped his intricate way of thinking. Yet, he still leaves room for the unexpected. For Yuzuru Hanyu, a one-of-a-kind skater, walking his own path with unwavering composure is, in itself, a continuous challenge.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Author: Hiroaki Yamato
Born in 1985 in Gunma Prefecture. Graduated from Keio University with a degree in economics. Since joining Sports Nippon newspaper, he has been covering Yuzuru Hanyu as an Olympic correspondent for over six years since October 2018.

Model: Yuzuru Hanyu

Photograph: Hiro Kimura (W)

Styling: Ryo Kuroda

Hair & Make-up: Tomomi Kakizaki

Born in December 1994 in Sendai City, Yuzuru Hanyu graduated from Waseda University’s School of Human Sciences through its distance learning program. As a figure skater, he achieved back-to-back Olympic gold medals at the 2014 Sochi and 2018 PyeongChang Winter Games. Overcoming the hardships of the Great East Japan Earthquake and multiple injuries, he was honored with the People’s Honor Award in July 2018, becoming the youngest individual recipient of the award. In 2020, he became the first male skater to complete the Super Slam, winning all major international competitions at both the junior and senior levels. Hanyu was also the first in history to successfully land a quadruple loop jump. At the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, he challenged the most difficult jump under current rules—the quadruple Axel (4A).

In July 2022, he turned professional, and in February 2023, he made history again by holding “GIFT”—the first-ever solo performance by a skater at the Tokyo Dome, drawing a crowd of 35,000 spectators.

yuzurujenn · March 1

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

2025.03.01

Source: https://goetheweb.jp/person/article/20250301-yuzuru-2

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250301033418/https://goetheweb.jp/person/article/20250301-yuzuru-2

[Yuzuru Hanyu] How to face the past: "It makes me want to become stronger for the rest of my life" - Confronting the original experience that continues to this day

Athletes who challenge the limits of humanity. There is a world that can only be seen by continuing to fight to the limits of body and mind. "The Heart-Shaking Ways of Athletes" is an irregular series that takes a look at not only the competitions, but also a part of life that goes on behind the scenes.

Spoiler

My worst slump was from 4th to 6th grade.

When stepping into a new challenge, the past that has been built up can sometimes become a burden. Professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu’s past is filled with brilliance, yet he continues to evolve without being bound by it.

Even as he has moved from the world of competition to the world of expression, his passion for skating has only grown. How does the aspiring skater view his past and use it as motivation?

"There's no doubt that what I've experienced up until now has contributed to my current expressiveness."

Starting with his two consecutive Olympic gold medals, he achieved the "Super Slam" by winning all major titles in both the junior and senior categories. He speaks passionately as he acknowledges that all of his experiences as an athlete have become a part of him.

"The toughest time for me as an athlete was from the latter half of my fourth year of elementary school until around November of my sixth year. I think that was the time when I was in the biggest slump. Looking back, it was incredibly early in my career, wasn’t it?”

Despite being affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, he won the 2014 Sochi Olympics. He claimed a second Olympic gold in 2018 despite battling repeated injuries. In 2022, he overcame the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic and pursued the unprecedented quadruple Axel at the Beijing Olympics. Yet, the driving force behind Hanyu’s determination is not these well-known milestones of success but rather an experience from his early childhood.

"It wasn't the earthquake or the coronavirus. To be honest, I think the toughest time for me was when I was in the upper grades of elementary school. Things that happened a really long time ago are what still form the foundation of who I am today."

In the fall of his fourth year of elementary school, Hanyu won his first international championship in December 2004 in Finland. However, he experienced his first setback in life when the rink where he practiced was closed shortly after. He was forced to commute to and from a rink far from his home, and his practice time was drastically reduced. He felt left behind while his peers were improving. He was unable to achieve satisfactory results in competitions.

“Of course, a lot has happened in my 30 years. My approach to and perspective on figure skating change day by day, but compared to the hardships of fourth, fifth, and sixth grade, I can handle anything. That frustration from back then still fuels my determination to keep getting stronger for the rest of my life.”

The setbacks he felt as an elementary school student, when he was still immature both physically and mentally, remain in his memory as strong experiences. Even if you can't see the future, keep reaching out. Yuzuru Hanyu's way of thinking was shaped at that time, enabling him to overcome the challenges that followed. Because his instinct is to live at full force, he does not dwell on past glories.

Hanyu once said this during his time as an athlete.

"When I was little, I experienced a lot of frustration and defeat. I learned all about the pain of not being able to practice and the stagnation of my progress by the time I was in elementary and middle school. That has really helped me in my skating now. It's the foundation of the mental strength that allows me to persevere even in difficult times."

The mind of an athlete who continuously evolves is not filled solely with dazzling memories. It is also shaped by setbacks, regrets, and feelings of powerlessness... personal struggles that only he understands. Confronting these past experiences adds tension to his daily life. Even after becoming a professional, the fight continues.

yuzurujenn · March 14

*machine translation, inaccuracies exist*

2025.03.05

Source: https://goetheweb.jp/person/article/20250305-yuzuru-hanyu-2

Archived: https://web.archive.org/web/20250305042652/https://goetheweb.jp/person/article/20250305-yuzuru-hanyu-2

Yuzuru Hanyu: "I'm proud that what I've done is sports"

Yuzuru Hanyu , a professional figure skater, turns 30 on December 7, 2024. He is still training harder than when he won the gold medal at the Olympics. We look into the mindset, beliefs, and drive of this man who is constantly reinventing himself.

Spoiler

Being an athlete is the core. Occupation: Yuzuru Hanyu

Unraveling the profession of Yuzuru Hanyu. What resonates throughout his words is his unwavering commitment to the art of performance. He never cuts corners in his craft, and his steadfast belief in figure skating forms the very foundation of his intense, gripping performances.

"The first thing I said when I turned professional was that I am an athlete. Figure skating is fundamentally a sport, though it incorporates artistic elements. But to perform artistically, I believe the athletic aspect accounts for about 80% of the discipline. Without physical endurance, you can't skate properly. Without proper technique, you can't land a quadruple jump. In Ice Story, performing a program with two quads after skating for 30 minutes was almost impossible.

The most important thing for me as a professional is ensuring that turning pro doesn’t mean I can lean too heavily into the artistic side. I take great pride in the fact that what I have pursued is, first and foremost, a sport. Strength and inspiration—these are the emotions we experience through the power of sports. I believe it is my duty as a professional to continue merging that power with the emotions that art can evoke."

During his competitive career, Hanyu was known for his relentless hunger for victory, exposing his raw instincts on the ice. While that drive remains unchanged, what has evolved is his definition of "victory."

"Every time I create a program, I do so with the belief that it’s impossible to execute—though I mean that in a good way. Before, my goal was to win, to take first place. But now, my challenge and my goal lie in executing my programs flawlessly. If I can’t perform the program perfectly, then I consider that my loss. If I can, then that’s my victory. Since Ice Story performances don’t end in just one day, my motivation becomes to deliver a flawless, mistake-free performance again the next time. It’s a process of turning what I once thought impossible into reality."

How does he maintain such a high baseline of physical and mental endurance? His approach to goal-setting reveals the essence of an athlete who has transcended limits.

"Setting goals in life is incredibly difficult. The closer a goal is, the easier it is to achieve, but it doesn’t necessarily bring a strong sense of self-efficacy. On the other hand, if a goal is too far out of reach, the struggle to achieve it can make every day feel unbearably difficult. But for me, perhaps the more distant the goal, the more I can find a way to enjoy the journey—even if it means embracing the struggle along the way."

Searching earnestly, continuing to search for what is valuable to me

His career is filled with brilliant records and unforgettable moments, including two consecutive Olympic gold medals. But on the flip side, it is also built upon countless failures and relentless trial and error. Every time he hit a wall, he got back up—his unwavering fighting spirit rooted in the resilience of those rebuilding their lives after the Great East Japan Earthquake, an event he himself experienced firsthand.

"Humans tend to remember negative thoughts far more strongly, so it's impossible to forget failures. But every failure has a cause. Sometimes, that cause might be setting the wrong goal. Even so, instead of giving up, I try to explore different approaches. Maybe I lacked effort, maybe my method was wrong, maybe my technical perspective was off.

As long as I keep searching without giving up, I find myself believing that I can do it. But having faith in yourself is incredibly difficult. Still, I think of those working toward reconstruction in Noto after the earthquake, or the members of the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations, who were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. They have continued to believe, and that unwavering belief is what brought them to where they are now.

Having experienced 3.11 firsthand, I understand the incredible strength of human belief. It may sound idealistic, but I truly believe that if you don’t give up, you can find a way. However, just blindly putting in effort without real intent won’t get you anywhere. You have to seriously search for what truly holds value for you, and keep working at it, step by step. That’s what matters most."

I have more muscle, technique and knowledge now than I did when I was competing.

The daily routine of a top performer. To remain at the pinnacle, his everyday life revolves around relentless self-discipline—six days a week, averaging over five hours of training per day.

"I spend three hours daily on on-ice practice and off-ice training. Then, after tidying up a bit, there are days when I train for nearly another three hours. That includes weight training—lifting barbells, swinging dumbbells—what you’d typically call strength training.

There’s never really a moment when my mind is at ease. Sometimes, I notice that my stress and exhaustion show in my demeanor. But I’ve learned to recognize when I’m in that state where I’m overworked or lacking rest. Now, I make a conscious effort to take breaks when needed."

During his competitive years, he was a pure competitor at heart. Now, as a professional, he is also an unparalleled artist. Dedication has become second nature, a process that continuously reshapes him into an even higher version of himself.

"To dedicate myself to figure skating, I have to treat even sleep as part of my work. Not just because I’m a professional athlete now, but because even back in my competitive days, aiming for Olympic gold demanded that level of commitment. That routine has simply continued.

Honestly, I train even more now than I did back then. I’m leaner, stronger, and more knowledgeable in both technique and theory. Constantly evolving myself like this is what makes it exciting."

I want to cherish the little moments of each day

At 19, he won gold at the Sochi Olympics. At 23, he defended his title in PyeongChang. In his late 20s, he took on the unprecedented challenge of the quadruple Axel and embarked on a new journey as a professional skater. The 30 years that have shaped his legendary career are simply an extension of how he has always lived—pushing forward with everything he has.

"Looking back, I realize I’ve always been completely immersed in the present. From the outside, people might see me as someone with an unshakable core. But the truth is, the thoughts and perspectives surrounding that core can be easily swayed. Painful experiences, seeing or hearing unpleasant things—it all affects me. There are times when I don’t want to train, when I feel shaken. But I think I’ve survived these 30 years by valuing and living through every single moment, even the ones where I waver."

Now at 30, he describes himself as being in his prime, enriched by experience and a broader perspective. The fulfillment is evident in his smile as he looks ahead.

"I finally feel like my knowledge, my vision, and my body are reaching for something higher. My body doesn’t always match the image I have in my head, but I’m beginning to understand how to train in a way that brings me closer to that image. When I set a goal, I feel like I understand the path to achieving it much better now. But I’m sure when I turn 40, I’ll look back and think, ‘I didn’t know anything back then.’ It’s a cycle that just keeps repeating."

As a professional skater, what does he strive for? Fully aware of the risks that come with his sport, he remains focused on the future.

"I think I have an unusually strong sense of anticipation for tomorrow. That’s why I believe I need to take responsibility today so that I don’t end up struggling tomorrow. If I feel unwell today, it’s because of what I did yesterday. I don’t know if this way of thinking is unique to athletes, but in figure skating, you never know if you’ll be able to train the day after tomorrow. The future isn’t something I can map out easily. But just like I’ve done for the past 30 years, I want to cherish the small moments in each day.

If, when I look back on today, I can say, ‘I gave it my all,’ then I want to keep repeating that every day."

His life, built on relentless effort, is driven by meticulous thought—yet he leaves room for the unexpected. For a one-of-a-kind skater like Yuzuru Hanyu, the very act of moving forward, unwavering yet open to possibility, will always be a challenge in itself.

Yuzuru Hanyu
Born in Sendai in December 1994. Graduated from the correspondence course at Waseda University's School of Human Sciences. Won two consecutive gold medals in men's figure skating at the Sochi Winter Olympics in 2014 and Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in 2018. In July 2018, he was awarded the People's Honor Award, the youngest individual recipient, in recognition of his achievements despite overcoming the Great East Japan Earthquake and repeated injuries. In 2020, he became the first man to achieve the "Super Slam," a complete domination of major international competitions in both junior and senior competitions. He was the first person in the world to successfully perform a quadruple loop jump, and at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics he will attempt the most difficult quadruple and a half jump (quad axel) under the current system. He turned professional in July 2022, and in February 2023, he held the first solo concert in the history of skaters, "GIFT," at the Tokyo Dome, attracting 35,000 people.

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[2025.02.25] GOETHE April 2025 issue

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COVER STORY (p. 015)

Special Interview Part 1

Embracing Encounters as a Path Forward

Cherishing the Small Moments of Each Day

"I Think I Have a Stronger Sense of Anticipation for Tomorrow Than Most People"

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