Kazakhstan’s Mikhail Shaidorov shared a viral 6-word message on Monday, days after winning Olympic gold in the free skate final.

Madison Chock, Evan Bates, Ellie Kam, Danny O'Shea, Amber Glenn and Ilia Malinin pose with their gold medals following the podium ceremony of the figure skating team event during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.

ALMATY – The 2026 Winter Olympic Games officially open today, Feb. 6, in Milan-Cortina, Italy, with Kazakhstan ready to highlight its winter sports talents in front of a worldwide audience.

In a shocking twist at the 2026 Winter Olympics, American figure skater Ilia Malinin​ didn't make it to the podium after falling twice during the free skate. Kazakhstan's Mikhail Shaidorov took home the gold.

Mikhail Shaidorov of Kazakhstan's gold medal in men's free skate stunned everyone — including himself. Here's what he had to say. (AP photo)

Dmitry Druzhinsky is confident that the online approach enables maintaining a training rhythm, monitoring physical indicators, and maintaining a professional level even in difficult circumstances. For many athletes, this is becoming an important tool for stability and confidence.

Ilia Malinin missed out on a medal in a stunning and dramatic men's figure skating final at the Winter Olympics today. The 21-year-old American fell twice in his final free skate to score 156.33 and finish eighth as Mikhail Shaidorov of Kazakhstan won gold.

Kazakh figure skater Mikhail Shaidorov says he is still spinning in disbelief after pulling off the biggest shock of the Winter Olympics so far.

ALMATY – Kazakhstan’s ski jumper Ilya Mizernykh delivered the best Olympic result in the country’s history, finishing eighth in the men’s large hill event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Feb. 15.

Mikhail Shaidorov became Kazakhstan’s first Olympic gold medallist in men’s figure skating after triumphing at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics 2026. View on euronews

Americans who top the podium at the Milan Cortina Games will be in line for a $37,500 bonus. Their competitors could collect as much as $800,000.