“AT 21, HE SKATED LIKE HE’D LIVED A LIFETIME.” He’s known for jumps most skaters won’t even attempt. But that night at the Gold on Ice gala, Ilia Malinin did something harder. Skating to NF’s “Hope,” the 21-year-old world champion slowed everything down. His face was calm. His movements weren’t loud. And when the lyrics spoke about creating something no one else can, he launched into a jump he named himself. Not to impress. To explain who he is. For a moment, the “Quad God” disappeared. What remained was a young man fighting through doubt, telling his story without saying a word. With 2026 inching closer, this didn’t feel like a show. It felt like the beginning of something deeper.

Scroll down to the end of the article to watch the full performance.

Ilia Malinin Turns “Hope” Into a Statement at Gold on Ice Gala

He has already pushed the limits of what is technically possible on ice. Now, Ilia Malinin is showing the world that his artistry is evolving just as quickly as his jump content.

At the Gold on Ice gala, the 2024 World Champion delivered a performance that felt deeply personal and emotionally charged. Skating to NF’s cinematic hip-hop track “Hope”, the 21-year-old American transformed the rink into a stage for reflection, intensity, and growth.

The arena atmosphere shifted the moment the music began. Known widely as the “Quad God” for his historic jump arsenal, Malinin set aside pure technical focus and leaned fully into storytelling. Dressed in a sleek, dark costume that blended elegance with edge, he moved with urgency and purpose — matching the song’s themes of pressure, resilience, and self-belief.

The “Hope” Masterclass

The Technical Edge

Even in an exhibition setting, Malinin did not hold back. He landed a clean triple Axel and included his crowd-favorite backflip, sending the 12,000 spectators to their feet. The jumps were sharp and controlled, but it was the transitions — the musical timing and intricate footwork — that elevated the program beyond spectacle.

The Message Behind the Music

Fans quickly connected the lyrics — particularly the line, “I’m taking the reins, it’s a new day” — to Malinin’s current moment in the sport. As he prepares for the upcoming Olympic individual final, the program felt less like a gala performance and more like a declaration.

The Emotional Connection

Clips of his performance circulated across social media within hours. Viewers praised the maturity in his expression and the way his movements mirrored the song’s emotional arc. Many noted that this was not just the jumper who redefined quadruple skating — this was an athlete embracing vulnerability.

“This Program Is Personal”

After the show, Malinin acknowledged the meaning behind the choreography.

“This program is personal,” he shared. “It’s about the pressure of being at the top and the hope that keeps you pushing when everyone expects you to be perfect. It’s the real me.”

The timing of the performance could not be more significant. Earlier in the week, he helped secure team gold for Team USA. However, a fall on his quadruple Axel during practice briefly sparked concern about his condition. The “Hope” routine served as reassurance — both physically and mentally — that he remains focused and ready.

More Than the “Quad God”

Online reactions were swift and enthusiastic. Many longtime observers commented on how Malinin’s artistry continues to expand alongside his technical dominance. “He’s not just a jumper anymore — he’s a storyteller,” one fan wrote. Others described the performance as a turning point in his evolution as a complete skater.

As anticipation builds for the individual event, Malinin has demonstrated that his strength lies not only in unprecedented technical difficulty but also in emotional depth. If he carries this same intensity into competition, the rest of the field will face more than high scores — they will face an athlete skating with conviction.

For now, one thing is clear: Ilia Malinin is no longer defined solely by physics-defying jumps. He is defining himself on his own terms — with power, vulnerability, and unmistakable hope.

Watch the Full Performance Below

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