Rika Kihira

[rabidline]

I feel bad for Rika. I really thought she is getting better, I was relieved when she withdrew from Coupe de Printemps and didn't do any ice shows in the summer. And she had some appearances on TV where they covered her road to recovery, so I thought recovery was going well. But it seems that the old injury is very difficult to heal unless she completely stopped doing everything.

Rika and her new bangs gave a video message on the Toyota News channel yesterday, around 57th minute:

 

[Arriba627]

^^^Yes! All reports seemed to have a very positive vibe, and it seemed like she was taking her time and not rushing things. I'm sure she and her fans are hugely disappointed.

 

[RafaelAstro]

Last 2 seasons were the perfect for her to rest and let her injury heal completely but she insisted to compete or do ice shows when she couldn't afford that, I'm so sorry for her but it's not to late, rest this season Rika!

 

[yesterday]

I'm also confused about the general news. Thought she was on the way up and the GP nomination a good sign

 

[gsk8]

 

[Jeanie19]

 

[skim1001]

 

[Magill]

Rika posted a message on her 22nd birthday which was yesterday! All the best to Rika! Happy birthday! We miss you dearly!

 

[Jeanie19]

 

[rabidline]

Rika's interview with Tokyo Sports for her 22nd birthday, with her current outlook on injury and the season:

ミラノ五輪見据えた今季の戦いに挑む紀平梨花　22歳の抱負は「誠実で前向きな女性に」 | 東スポWEB

２１日に２２歳の誕生日を迎えたフィギュアスケート女子２０１８年グランプリ（ＧＰ）ファイナル覇者...

www.tokyo-sports.co.jp

 

[macy]

even though it seems she understands more she needs to be very careful and not overdo it, i wonder if she needs to completely 100% heal before returning instead of 70%-80%. it sounds like the risk of reinjury is still somewhat present...i'm not sure if any amount of "careful" will prevent that. i wish her the best and hope she stays healthy.

 

[Magill]

Rika has posted today. Unfortunately, she is not healed yet completely and she will not compete this season. She says she is "almost" healed, does some practice. but both her doctor and her coach, Brian Orser, advised her to wait until her condition allows the burden of full training. I'm so sorry for her but if she's not healed completely then this is the right decision.
Wishing her fast and full recovery, and a strong heart! We love you, remember you and miss you, Rika, and we will wait for you however long it takes for you to recover and return to your full strength and might! Whatever happens, happens but you have been one of the brightest stars of the last decade of women figure skating and we remember you as such

 

[Vemvane]

Skating video from Rika.



Instagram's translation of the caption says:

Recent step practice video I might delete.
My teacher took this picture, so I'll just publish it a bit.
Don't worry too much there are two missed spots