Mao Asada set to return to rink

Mao Asada (25), a Japanese rival of ‘Figure Skating Queen’ Kim Yun-a who is of the same age as the latter, will likely make a comeback as an active figure skater.

Japanese media reported on Wednesday that “Asada, who had been taking rest in the past season, resumed training.” Asada reportedly requested coaches Nobuo Sato and Kumiko Sato to guide her. A spokesperson for Asada said, “Asada has strong aspiration to return as active athlete after leaving the sport for over a year. She is currently checking physical conditions. She will officially announce her comeback on Monday next week.

After the Winter Olympics in Sochi last year, Asada postponed her decision to retire, saying “My chance to retire is 50-50,” and has not been participating in competitions since May last year. Instead of taking training, she has been engaged in diverse activities including ice show performances and radio show hosting.

The Japanese skating association is welcoming Asada’s return. After Asada’s departure, figure skating saw its popularity wane, and a figure skater who is drawing as strong public attention as Asada has not appeared in the country.

The association expects that with Asada’s return as active athlete, figure skating will not only regain popularity but also attract more sponsors.