Mao is the true Olympic Champion of my heart. And she ended up 6th, like Daisuke.
In other news, I admit I'm sort of sick of Mao's Exhibition program 'Smile'. I wish she would change her program, like Hanyu does. But this time, I think this program really really really suits how she must be currently feeling, and I hope she skates it 100 times better than she usually does.
Beautiful piece on Mao.
http://www.asahi.com/olympics/sochi2014/lastdance/
Even if you don't read Japanese, the illustrations are beautiful.
With Mao reaching new heights with her jumps and artistry lately, I also wonder if she shouldn't continue. She is still pretty young. But she competed so much in the last quad, she was in nearly EVERY competition. If I were her I would not focus on 2018. Maybe stay another season or even rest for one season and then decide. I just want her to become World Champion in Japan. I think she deserves it and I believe she can do it.
Yes, I really hope she continues for another season or two at least. I was depressed for weeks when I first heard she was thinking of retiring this season :-/ Especially after she gave us the pure magic of last year's "I got Rhythm", "Swan Lake" and OMG... "MARY POPPINS"!Really? That's great! I was sure she would retire - so if there's even a chance that she might not.... Why, that's wonderful!