American figure skater Ilia Malinin, known as the "Quad God" for his mastery of quadruple jumps, is returning to competition as a changed athlete, according to a USA TODAY Sports report by Jordan Mendoza published on November 6, 2026.
The 19-year-old Malinin made history as the first skater to land a quadruple axel in competition and has won multiple national and international titles. His return to the ice follows a period of development and adjustment ahead of the new season.
Further details about his training changes, competitive schedule, and goals for the upcoming season were not provided in the initial report.
