Evgeni Plushenko: “Elizaveta Is Genius”
A famous figure skater Evgeni Plushenko in an interview with Russian media shared his impressions of the Moscow Grand Prix stage, which was held past weekend, and also told about his plans for the near future.
What can you tell about men’s event? Are you impressed by someone?
E. Plushenko: I was impressed by a very good short program of American Jeremy Abbott. In general, the first four skaters (note: first four athletes by the final standings) at this stage performed very well. Some of them made mistakes in a free skate but I think it’s too early to evaluate someone because the main competitions are ahead.
The first place took a 16-year Japanese skater Yuzuru Hanyu. Was it a surprise?
E. Plushenko: He goes towards the aim for a long time. Sometimes he lacks stability, but this is due to his young age. He is a very serious competitor for our country, our athletes and for me personally. In trainings he executes two quads in cascades – Salchow and toe loop. I skated with him at the ice show in Japan. He worked with Igor Bobrin (note: famous Soviet and Russian skater) and I think his victory in Moscow is logical.
In the team of your coach Alexei Mishin, is also training Elizaveta Tuktamisheva, who won two Grand Prix stages and has been qualified to the Final. What is your opinion about this young talent?
E. Plushenko: She is a genius! The main thing now is not to overpraise her. You know, popularity, new friends and so on will be a serious test for her. Therefore, adults, coaches and parents, have to constantly show her a right way. I know how it is necessary. Elizaveta is the hope of our ladies single skating.
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