Released in 2016, the anime seriesYuri on Iceall but came out of nowhere and quickly won the hearts of anime fans worldwide. The 12-episode series tackles the high-stakes world of competitive figure skating, offering viewers an intense romantic drama and stunning character animation courtesy of studio MAPPA. The success ofYuri on Icewas unusual for a sports anime outside Japan as real-life athletes began plugging the show, but all of that hype has since died. After years of waiting,Yuri on Ice’s future was dashed by MAPPA last year, but now its spiritual successor has come to fill the void.
After all, recent anime series set in the world of competitive figure skating is captivating audiences across Japan.Medalist, based on the manga series by Tsurumaikada and published by Kodansha, is proving to be a breakout hit of the Winter 2025 season.In a recent surveyof the most-watched anime on the popular streaming platform NicoNico,Medalistclaimed the number one spot despite fierce competition, so Yuri Katsuki must be proud.
The Story of Medalist: A Tale of Perseverance and Dreams
The Ice Becomes Her Glorious Stage
Medalisttells the story of Inori Yuitsuka, a fifth-grade girl who dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal in figure skating. However, the athlete faces significant obstacles such as her late start in the sport and her mother, who believes Inori is incapable of success when compared to her more talented older sister. Undeterred, Inori secretly practices at a local rink, teaching herself how to skate through sheer determination.
Her fate changes when she meets Tsukasa Akeuraji, a former ice dancer struggling to find his place in the skating world after repeated failures in show auditions. Recognizing Inori’s potential and unwavering drive, Tsukasa decides to become her coach. Together, the teacher-student duo embark on a journey of rigorous training, competition, and personal growth as they push toward their shared goal: making Inori a true champion on the ice.
Yuri on Ice vs. Medalist: Two Different Skating Worlds
Will Medalist Capture the World’s Attention?
AlthoughYuri on IceandMedalistrevolve around figure skating, the two anime differ significantly in themes and storytelling.Yuri on Icefollows Yuri Katsuki, a skater battling anxiety who finds guidance and love through his role model-turned-coach, Victor Nikiforov. WhileYuri on Iceexplores relationships and artistry of figure skating professionally,Medalistportrays the determined struggle of a newcomer breaking into the sport. Both celebrate the beauty of figure skating but offer distinct narratives: one focuses on romance and self-discovery and the other on ambition and resilience.
MAPPA Faces More Criticism Over Yuri On Ice Movie Cancellation
MAPPA is under fire as fans call out the decision to cancel the Yuri!!! On Ice Movie, after the series originally put the studio on the map.
It remains to be seen whetherMedalistwill have the same global impact asYuri on Ice, but for now, it has emerged as the standout anime of the Winter 2025 season in Japan. Not evenSakamoto Dayshas managed to sway the show’s grip on the fandom despite its success in the United States. Figure skating fans and sports lovers have a clever new title to watch, and only time will tell ifMedalistwill leave a lasting legacy on the ice.
Medalist
Cast
Medalist follows Tsukasa Akeuraji, a frustrated skater who encounters Inori Yuitsuka, an aspiring figure skater. Inspired by Inori’s dedication, Tsukasa begins to coach her. As Inori’s talent flourishes, Tsukasa transforms into an exceptional mentor, and together they strive to achieve her dream of becoming a medalist.
