Japan's archipelago is captivated! The second Mao Asada, in a 'neat school uniform,' receives the Chiba Prefecture Governor's Award from Choi Cho (수상)... "Nakai Ami credited for winning the youngest-ever Olympic medal"

*This content was translated by AI.

Nakai Ami (18), the bronze medalist in women's singles figure skating at the 2026 Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo Winter Olympics, received the Chiba Prefecture Governor's Award, becoming the first winter sports athlete to be honored with the award, drawing warm praise from local Japanese fans.

Japan's 'J-Cast' reported on the 29th that "Governor Tomohito Kumagai of Chiba Prefecture presented the Chiba Prefecture Governor's Award to Nakai."

Governor Kumagai praised Nakai's Olympic performance, saying, "Her ability to complete high-difficulty techniques, such as the triple axel, with a smile will surely remain in the memories of many." He further stated, "Nakai has become the first recipient of the Chiba Prefecture Governor's Award, which is given based on results in international competitions, in a winter sport."

He also commended Nakai's dedication and hidden efforts. Governor Kumagai remarked, "I heard that Nakai made the decision to leave her hometown and family to improve her skills," and emphasized, "Her relentless efforts, combined with the support of her parents, coaches, and school officials, led her to win a bronze medal on a grand stage. I sincerely pay tribute to her." He added that he and the prefecture's residents would continue to support her future achievements.

In the released photo, Nakai, dressed in a neat school uniform, posed with Governor Kumagai while holding a certificate and a doll of Chiba Prefecture's mascot, "Chibagun."

Upon hearing the news about Na Ka-i-ui (수상), Japanese fans also reacted enthusiastically. Netizens shared comments such as, "It's so cute to see her holding the Chibagun doll while listening to the story," and "We sincerely praise Nakai for returning to Chiba Prefecture with excellent results."

Meanwhile, Nakai, hailed as the next-generation ace leading Japanese women's singles figure skating, won a tearful bronze medal at her first Olympics, the Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo Games. Known as the "second Mao Asada" locally for her signature high-difficulty triple axel jump, she stood on the podium at the age of 17 years and 298 days. This broke the record for the youngest Olympic medalist set by Mao Asada (19 years and 153 days) at the 2010 Vancouver Games, writing a new chapter in Japanese women's figure skating history.

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*This content was translated by AI.