For generations, the Senior Free Skating World Champions have reigned as the true King and Queen of artistic roller skating. At the 69th Artistic World Championships in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, a new coronation unfolded. Dazzling performances, breathtaking artistry, and unmatched passion crowned a fresh generation of royalty on wheels.
Artistic skating is unlike any other sport. Skaters are a rare blend of quiet soul and radiant spirit. They spend countless hours in practice, often alone, shaping grace through discipline. Content in their solitude, they chase perfection unseen, finding meaning on the rink. Then comes the moment of competition. The quiet gives way to light. The introvert steps back, and the extrovert, the confident, prepared athlete and performer, emerges. How lucky are the audience and officials to witness such transformation?
The Senior Ladies Free Skating event was like walking into a library of styles, each skater a unique story representing 21 nations from around the world. Portugal’s Madalena Costa, already a two time Junior World Champion, captivated the audience with a flawless performance to The Pearl of the Atlantic Ocean. Her breathtaking program earned her victory and the title of 2025 Senior Ladies Free Skating World Champion, setting a new world record score of 260.15 points. A new chapter in history has been written. Costa is the first skater from Portugal to win a Senior Free Skating title. With her poise, record breaking scores, and undeniable artistry, she has firmly established herself as a defining star of a new generation. The silver medal went to Gioia Fiori of Italy, who scored 224.76 points. Ranked number one in the World Skate Rankings, Fiori’s skating combined exquisite artistry with technical precision. Performing to Love Beyond the Barbed Wire, she filled the rink with emotion and commanding presence. Sira Bella Gallardo of Spain completed the podium, earning 185.66 points and the bronze medal. Despite a challenging long program, her powerful short program secured her place among the world’s best.
Both Costa and Fiori won the hearts of the crowd, each receiving well deserved standing ovations for their unforgettable performances.
In the Senior Mens Free Skating, the Spanish flag soared high as it claimed the top two podium spots. Hector Diez delivered a commanding performance to The Mummy, earning 243.44 points and his first Senior World Title. Known for his difficult spin combinations and high level of jumps, Diez’s win marked a career defining moment. Right behind him was Arnau Perez, also of Spain. Skating to In the Limbo, Perez won the Long Program and claimed the silver medal with 231.55 points. His excitement was palpable as he finished, knowing he had achieved both a medal and personal satisfaction. Performing to The Winner Takes It All, Diogo Craveiro of Portugal earned 223.39 points and the bronze medal, rounding out a thrilling podium.
Senior Ladies Free Skating
- Madalena Costa POR 260.15
- Gioia Fiori ITA 224.76
- Sira Bella Gallardo ESP 185.66
Senior Mens Free Skating
- Hector Diez ESP 243.44
- Arnau Perez ESP 231.55
- Diogo Craveiro POR 223.39
The free skating events at the World Championships have come to a thrilling close, and they were everything a true competition should be. Moments of courage, grace, and artistry lit up the floor as new legacies were born, carving their place in the history of the sport. World Skate ranking points were earned, but the rewards reach far beyond numbers. As the season ends, the skaters look ahead with renewed vision, their eyes already fixed on the next challenge, the next dream, the next chance to rise even higher.
Congratulations to all the Free Skaters for bringing their best to Beijing!
Competition is daily at Beijing Yanqing District Comprehensive Gymnasium of the Fitness Center. Next up for medals is Junior and Senior Couples Dance. Couples Free Dance starts on Friday, October 24 at 14:40 CST.
Catch all the action live at www.worldskate.tv