Filipino figure skater Michael Martinez announces return to competition

Filipino figure skating star Michael Christian Martinez is making a return to the competitive scene after nearly five years away, during which he focused on coaching the next generation of figure skaters.

The two-time Winter Olympian announced his decision on Monday, admitting that it took him some time to commit to a comeback and sharing that he is set to return to competition at the 2026 Philippine National Figure Skating Championships this November, the same month he turns 30.

He is also eyeing to return to international stage by 2027.

"I had many options for my 30th birthday. Somehow, I chose Philippine Nationals," he said in a post.

"Honestly, I never thought I’d be making this announcement again. It’s been years since I last competed, and since then, life has changed a lot. I’ve been able to do other things, focus more on coaching, and help younger skaters with their own competitive journey."

The 29-year-old is one of the Philippines' most celebrated figure skaters, having represented the country in two consecutive Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia in 2014 and PyeongChang, South Korea in 2018.

One of his most recent competitions was the 2021 Challenger Series Cup of Austria.

Since then, Martinez has gradually shifted his focus from competing to coaching, helping develop the next generation of figure skaters at SM Skating Rinks in Megamall and the Mall of Asia.

Martinez admitted that deciding to lace up his skates again was a long and difficult process. This time, however, he is keeping his expectations in check and said he simply wants to enjoy the experience of competing again.

"This time, I really just want to enjoy competing again. No big expectations, no unnecessary pressure. I’m also keeping things simple. Not trying to recreate my Olympic days. Just training, skating, competing, and hopefully having fun doing it again," he added.

"Of course, I still have a few personal goals I want to accomplish. But we’ll get to those eventually. For now, I’m just happy to be back."

"I honestly don’t know how far this comeback will go, and maybe that’s what makes it exciting. One competition at a time. Let’s just see what happens."

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA News