Figure Skater Going for 3rd Straight Grand Prix Win

Figure skating star Kim Yu-na,18, is back home to compete in the final event of the Grand Prix of the International Skating Union from tomorrow.

The 18-year-old arrived at Incheon International Airport yesterday after spending six months training in Toronto, Canada.

Kim’s flight arrived at 4 a.m., but some 30 fans greeted her with a large placard and a bundle of flowers.

She looked bright and much more comfortable since giving stellar performances in this season’s two Grand Prix competitions.

“I am pleased to participate in an international competition in Korea for the first time,” Kim said. “My fans are expecting good results since it’s in Korea. I hope to meet their expectations.”

On her training sessions, she said she was very tired after the third Grand Prix competition last month. She said she focused on controlling her condition for the first two weeks, and spent the remaining period making as few errors as possible.

“Since I got satisfying results in the last two Grand Prix events, I will perform confidently. I feel a little nervous because I’ll face many outstanding skaters, but I’ll do what I have to do,” she said.

On the “wrong edge” judgment in the third round of Grand Prix, she said she was confused over the unexpected results, but believes it will be no problem this time if she does what she has been practicing.

On world champion and rival Mao Asada of Japan, Kim said, “Not only Asada but other players are good as well. She’s just one of my competitors.”

Kim moved to Best Western Seoul Garden Hotel, and after resting, she continued closed training in the evening at the competition venue.

kimsk@donga.com