NHK Trophy 2024: Sakamoto Kaori unleashes world’s season high to lead Japanese podium sweep

In just the two weeks since Skate Canada, Sakamoto leveled up – beyond anything she expected.

A night after setting the world lead in the short program, the 24-year-old produced her best rendition yet of All that Jazz in the free skate that would make Roxie Hart proud.

Arguably the most physically demanding free program she has ever skated, Sakamoto came into the season wondering how to pace herself.

But on Saturday, she stopped thinking and simply went for it – and she got it in the form of an immaculate 152.95.

“I was calmer than I was for the short and I’m pleased with the quality of each and every element,” Sakamoto said. “I don’t pay attention to the other skaters before I hit the ice but I heard Mone’s score just before and I was determined to top that.

“It’s a very tough program and up until now I was always thinking about how to sruvive the entire skate, saving myself early on or trying to control my breathing. But that was making me less aggressive so I went full throttle from the start. I went right at it which I think led to the score today.

“I didn’t think I could come this far in the two weeks since Canada. I’m shocked myself. I couldn’t be happier.”