Monique Coleman Instagram – A letter of admiration for Ilia Malinin @ilia_quadg0d_malinin
Dear Ilia, I know you may not have had the Olympic ending you imagined, but watching you this entire season has been nothing short of inspiring.
Monique and I had the distinct pleasure of watching you skate both at worlds and at U.S. Nationals. We were also in Milan to watch you skate for the Team event and we got to see your short program at the Winter Olympics.
Every performance was so entirely captivating, it’s so hard to imagine being the age you are and doing what you do.
Once backstage, I didn’t have any idea of what to expect in meeting you, and yet everytime we were met with the kindest, funnest, most down to earth energy.
I’m sure you have THOUSANDS of fans that say this, but I can speak for Monique and I when I say that we are some of your biggest fans, not only as an athlete but as the person you are.
I watched your performance tonight from home and what struck me the most was your sportsmanship at the end where you hugged and congratulated Shaidorov on his win.
I held so much pride for you in that moment. What unbelievable pressure and emotions you had to have been navigating, but you showed the world and young athletes exactly how to do it.
You are a role model. Fearless, inspiring, kind, and supportive of others. I just wanted to thank you for being all of those things, whether it’s something you actively work towards or if it comes naturally to your character.
The future is so bright for you. Cannot wait to watch what’s to come. 🌟⛸️❄️🥂🇺🇸
#iliamalinin #iliaquadgodmalinin #figureskatinglove #figureskatingedit #milanocortina2026 | Posted on 14/Feb/2026 10:56:46
