The Beijing Yanqing District Comprehensive Gymnasium came alive as the Junior Free Skating took center stage at the 69th Artistic World Championships.
After the Short Program, the leaderboard was razor thin in both the Junior Ladies and Junior Mens events. In the Ladies competition, just over two points separated the top four skaters, while in the Mens event, less than half a point stood between first and second place. Heading into the Long Program, it was clear that every moment would count.
In the Junior Ladies Free Skating, Rita Azinheira of Portugal rose to the top of the podium to capture the World Championship title. Skating beautifully to Sleeping Beauty, Azinheira earned 182.38 points to claim gold. Martina Stefani of Italy captured her first World Championships medal, showcasing strong technical ability in her performance to Eco. Ranked third in the World Skate standings, Stefani earned 179.83 points for the silver medal. Paula Roman of Spain, last year’s bronze medalist, added another bronze to her collection with 172.16 points, skating to an upbeat Victor Victoria program.
The Junior Mens Free Skating was a show for the ages. Guillermo Gomez of Spain electrified the Beijing crowd with his brilliant performance to Beauty. Breaking his own World Record, Gomez scored 261.02 points to secure his second consecutive World title and brought the audience to their feet with a thunderous standing ovation. Right behind him, Unai Cereijo, also of Spain, delivered a powerful and emotional skate to Living in My Dream. With poise and confidence beyond his years, he earned 234.77 points to take the silver medal. João Cruz of Portugal, skating just two weeks after facing a tremendous personal loss, gave a heartfelt and unforgettable performance that moved everyone in the arena. His courage and artistry shone through as he earned 219.73 points and the bronze medal.
All three men crossed the 200-point mark, a true testament to the incredible depth and talent of this young field. With performances like these, the future of the sport has never looked brighter.
Junior Ladies Free Skating
1. Rita Azinheira POR 182.38
2. Martina Stefani ITA 179.83
3. Paula Roman ESP 172.16
Junior Mens Free Skating
1. Guillermo Gomez ESP 261.02
2. Unai Cereijo ESP 234.77
3. Joao Cruz POR 219.73
By night’s end, Azinheira and Gomez rose above the rest, earning the title of 2025 World Champions and marking a defining moment in their young careers. Stunning performances, fierce determination, and a showcase of athleticism and artistry. Dreams achieved, goals surpassed, and everyone’s heading home with well earned points toward the important World Skate Rankings.
Competition is daily at Beijing Yanqing District Comprehensive Gymnasium of the Fitness Center. Next up for medals is Senior Free Skating. Senior Ladies Long Program Top 10 starts on Wednesday, October 22 at 19:30 CST.
Catch all the action live at www.worldskate.tv