Canadian figure skater Keegan Messing ends retirement at 33, reigniting his Olympic dream ahead of Milan-Cortina 2026.
Veteran Skater Announces Comeback
Canadian figure skater Keegan Messing is officially coming out of retirement, declaring his intention to compete for a spot at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. The 33-year-old, who stepped away from competition in 2023, revealed his decision on Tuesday in a statement through Skate Canada.
The Spark Behind His Decision
Messing said his passion for competition reignited while performing in professional shows over the past year. “During the Stars On Ice tour, I realized I was skating at a high level again, and that sparked my decision to return,” he noted. “My focus now is to be stronger than when I retired and to secure a spot on the Olympic team.”
Training and Preparation
Currently based in Anchorage, Alaska, Messing has returned to training with his longtime coach Ralph Burghart. He has been rebuilding his technical elements and endurance, emphasizing that he has “regained his jumps” and is committed to approaching the next Olympic cycle with renewed determination.
Path to Qualifying Events
Messing will participate in Skate Canada’s High Performance Camp later this month in Mississauga, Ontario. There, national team officials will assess his readiness and determine his entry into domestic qualifying competitions and possible international events leading into the 2025–26 season.
Career Legacy and Motivation
The Alaska-born skater has long been a fan favourite in Canada, known for his artistry and charisma on the ice. A two-time Canadian national champion and five-time national medallist, he previously represented Canada at the 2018 PyeongChang and 2022 Beijing Olympics. His comeback is motivated not only by unfinished Olympic business but also by the opportunity to inspire the next generation of Canadian skaters.
Looking Toward Milan-Cortina
With less than 18 months until the Games, Messing’s return adds intrigue to Canada’s men’s figure skating roster. If successful, he could bring both experience and leadership to a team eager to make an impact on the Olympic stage. For Messing, the comeback represents more than medals — it’s about rekindling the fire that first drew him to the ice.
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