Sotnikova bags Russia’s first gold in figure skating

SOCHI, Russia(AP) – Russia’s cupboard was so bare of world-class female figure skaters that the sport’s most dominant nation had to turn to the kids a few years ago.

Among those youngsters was Adelina Sotnikova, who won a national championship in 2009, when she was just 12.

She was too young to compete at the 2010 Olympics. When she finally got to the games this year, she was overshadowed by an even younger teammate. But on Thursday night, the 17-year-old Sotnikova looked comfortable and unburdened by the pressure of the host nation, becoming Russia’s first gold medalist in women’s Olympic figure skating.

In the signature moment of the games for Russians, Sotnikova defeated defending champion Yuna Kim of South Korea. Both women skated nearly flawless programs, but Sotnikova completed one more decisive triple jump.

“I first dreamed to be at the Olympics after the nationals in 2010,” Sotnikova said. “And when I watched the games in Vancouver, I really wanted to qualify for the next games. I knew it won’t be easy. There are so many new talented girls around.”

Well, not really in Russia. Not until Sotnikova and 15-year-old Julia Lipnitskaia developed into junior world champions.

And while much-heralded Lipnitskaia was stumbling in Sochi, Sotnikova soared. When she won the free skate, she further confirmed Russian command of the sport.

“This is the happiest day in my life,” Sotnikova said. “I simply stepped on the ice today and realized how much I like what I’m doing and skated really good.”

The Russians have won three figure skating gold medals at these Olympics: women’s, pairs and team.

Sotnikova did not skate in the team event, and that provided incentive for her in the individual competition.

“When I found out that I was not in the team, it was hurtful. I felt ugly inside,” she said. “Maybe it is all for the best – an advantage for me to make me so mad.”

Sotnikova was considered a long shot against the likes of Kim, who announced her retirement after the free skate; Italy’s Carolina Kostner, who took bronze; Japan’s Mao Asada; and even Americans Gracie Gold and Ashley Wagner.

But she won it all, giving Russia or the Soviet Union 27 Olympic gold medals in the sport. They own five men’s golds, 13 in pairs, seven in ice dance, and took the first team event this year.