Miho Takagi expresses sadness as she contemplates her identity beyond speed skating after nearly sixteen years dedicated to the sport.
Schaatsen.nl, a Dutch skating news outlet, reports on Takagi’s reflections and her preparations for the World Championships.
Miho Takagi has shared that she feels sorrowful about stepping away from speed skating after devoting almost sixteen years of her life to the sport. She is currently taking time to reflect on who she is beyond skating and is exploring new possibilities outside her familiar sporting environment. Takagi is considering pursuing studies and aims to use her experience as a top athlete to assist others in managing their physical and mental well-being.
Before turning her attention fully to future plans, Takagi is preparing to compete in four events at the upcoming World Championships: the 500 meters, 3000 meters, 1500 meters, and hopefully the 5000 meters. She stated her intention to give her best performance without placing excessive pressure on herself, focusing instead on staying concentrated while enjoying every moment of the competition. Takagi acknowledged that the 5000 meters presents a particular challenge, as competing in four events over two days is demanding. Her initial goal is to qualify for the 5000 meters and to draw strength from the audience’s support.
She recalled the strong public encouragement she received in 2018 when she became the allround world champion at the temporary ice rink in Amsterdam’s Olympic Stadium, which remains a motivating memory as she approaches this championship.
