Russia claimed it’s first gold medal at the Sochi Olympics on Sunday but might have won something even bigger after unveiling a budding superstar who could achieve something the politicians have failed.
At just 15, Julia Lipnitskaya has announced her arrival as the new darling of women’s figure skating by helping Russia win gold in the inaugural team event.
Perhaps more importantly, the diminutive 5ft 2in Lipnitskaya has provided a skeptical outside world with one of the faces of the Games.
If her performances in the team events are any guide, Lipnitskaya is headed for super stardom. The figure skating world fell in love with her when she won the European championships last month and now the rest of the world is finding out why.
In just two days, she has gone from a virtual unknown to one of the most searched names on the Internet through her breathlessly enchanting displays on the ice and endearing smile.
Even in the United States, where the media have been highly critical of the Sochi Olympics, American hearts are melting, thanks to Lipnitskaya, whose performances have helped generate record television figures.
The United States has its own new figure skating darling – the delightfully named Gracie Gold – and even she is smitten by Lipnitskaya.
“She is dynamite. She is completely unfazed,” said Gold, who is only 18 and picked up a bronze medal in the team event.
“She has no spine, but she has iron in her bones. She goes, ding, ding, ding.”
Lipnitskaya is taking all the plaudits and attention in her stride, smiling for the cameras and politely answering all the questions asked of her.
“I don’t know how to explain the feeling I had out there,” she whispered. “I’m very happy to have helped win the first gold medal for Russia.”
