Who is Maxim Naumov and what happened to his parents?

Maxim Naumov is a U.S. figure skater who made his Olympic debut. His parents, former world champions and coaches, died in a plane crash in January 2025.

How did Maxim Naumov honor his parents at the Olympics?

Naumov delivered an emotional performance, stating he felt his parents' presence guiding him, and held a childhood photo of himself with them.

When did the plane crash that killed Maxim Naumov's parents occur?

The plane crash that killed Maxim Naumov's parents occurred in January 2025.

Home / Sports / Olympian Skater's Emotional Debut Honors Late Parents

Olympian Skater's Emotional Debut Honors Late Parents

11 Feb

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Summary

Skater Maxim Naumov debuted at the Olympics, honoring his late parents.
His parents died in a plane crash in January 2025 near Washington, D.C.
Naumov felt his parents' presence guiding him on the ice.

Olympian Skater's Emotional Debut Honors Late Parents

During his Olympic debut at the Milan Cortina Games, U.S. figure skater Maxim Naumov found strength in the memory of his late parents. They were among 67 individuals who perished in a January 2025 plane crash near Washington, D.C., an event that deeply affected the figure skating world.

Naumov, 24, spoke of feeling his parents' guidance throughout his performance. "I felt like I was guided by them today," he stated, expressing that their support was palpable with every move on the ice. He concluded his routine by looking skyward, overwhelmed with emotion.

He visibly honored his parents by holding a cherished childhood photograph of himself with them, a gesture that resonated with the spectators. "They're right here on my chest, on my heart," Naumov shared, emphasizing his desire for them to experience this significant moment alongside him.