Stephen Gogolev, a name that many have come to recognize in the world of figure skating, is showing the world his true potential at the Milan-Cortina Olympics. At just 21 years old, this Toronto native is making headlines with his exceptional performance on the ice.

In the men's singles short program, part of the team figure skating event, Gogolev scored an impressive 92.99 points. This score was just shy of his season's best by 6.7 points, demonstrating his consistent excellence. It was a pivotal moment for Gogolev, marking his debut at the Olympics, a dream he's cherished since childhood.

"It still feels a bit unreal," Gogolev confessed after his performance. "You're in this environment where you see all the best athletes, the best skaters, really the world's best competition." His awe is understandable; the Olympic stage is where legends are made.

Canada's total score now stands at 27 points, placing them in fourth position as they head into the final day of the team event on Sunday. Gogolev's efforts earned him a third-place ranking in his segment, trailing behind Japan's Yuma Kagiyama, who led with 108.67 points, and the U.S.'s Ilia Malinin, who scored 98 points.

The young skater's performance was not just about the scores; it was a show. Gogolev delivered a dynamic and engaging routine set to the "Mugzy’s Move" medley, a lively swing jazz piece. He embodied a 1920s gangster, complete with a storyline that saw him executing a flawless bank heist and escape. Initially hesitant about the music and concept, Gogolev has since embraced it wholeheartedly. "I wasn't so sure about the music and concept of it," he admitted, but it has grown to become one of his favorites.

Gogolev first debuted his routine during the 2025-2026 season, donning a tailored suit that echoed the fashion of the 1920s. At the 2026 Canadian National Championships, he wore a grey striped suit accented with a striking red tie. For his Olympic performance, the costume was revamped; he sported a darker suit, complete with a gold chain and a dark-striped tie, enhancing the character's authenticity.

"We just felt that the old suit was a bit too wide," Gogolev said, explaining the changes. "And also we wanted to change the color a bit and add a few more details." The attention to detail in his attire mirrored the precision and flair he demonstrated on the ice.

Gogolev's seamless routine on Saturday mirrored the meticulousness of his character's schemes. This isn't new for him. At the 2026 Canadian National Skating Championships, he achieved his first national title, scoring 99.6 points. His technical skills have been evident since he was just 13, when he became the first Canadian to land a quad Lutz jump in competition. He has continued to excel, consistently landing multiple quad jumps, including toe loop, Lutz, and Salchow, in a single event.

During his Olympic routine, Gogolev displayed these very skills. He opened with a quad loop jump and triple loop, later executing a quad Salchow and triple Axel jump. His ability to perform such complex maneuvers under pressure is a testament to his skill and dedication.

As the competition continues, all eyes are on Gogolev and the Canadian team. With their current standing, the possibility of a medal is within reach, and Stephen Gogolev is undoubtedly a key player in that pursuit.