Japan’s Olympic figure skating champions Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara have announced their engagement, taking their celebrated partnership from the ice into a new chapter of their lives.
The pair, popularly known as “Riku-Ryu,” shared the news on social media on August 23, posting a photograph of Kihara kneeling on the ice and presenting Miura with a ring.
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From Skating Partners to Life Partners
Miura, 24, and Kihara, 34, formed their skating partnership in 2019 and quickly became one of Japan’s most successful pairs.
Their journey included major international victories, two World Championship titles and an Olympic silver medal in the team event at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.
Their biggest achievement came at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, where they made history as the first Japanese pair to win Olympic gold in figure skating.
Their Olympic victory was particularly memorable because they entered the decisive free skate in fifth place after an error in their short programme.
They responded with a remarkable free-skating performance to take the gold medal, earning a world-record score and creating one of the most emotional moments of the Games.
Kihara was visibly emotional after their victory, while the pair’s celebrations and close bond made them favourites among Japanese fans.
Overcoming Years of Challenges
Their success came despite significant physical challenges.
Kihara dealt with recurring back injuries, while Miura repeatedly competed despite a chronically dislocated shoulder.
Their ability to overcome those difficulties became an important part of their story and helped make their Olympic triumph even more meaningful.
Retirement Before a New Beginning
Following their Olympic triumph, Miura and Kihara announced their retirement from competitive skating in April 2026.
They said they wanted to take on new challenges and help raise the profile of pairs skating in Japan.
Just months later, the pair announced another major milestone this time in their personal lives.
“Riku-Ryu” Begin a New Chapter
In their engagement announcement, the two reflected on the years they had spent supporting each other through both difficult and joyful moments.
They described themselves as having eventually become irreplaceable parts of each other’s lives.
The announcement quickly attracted thousands of congratulatory messages from fans, showing the affection the pair have built during their years together on the world stage.
1. Historic Olympic Champions
Miura and Kihara made history as Japan’s first Olympic pairs figure skating gold medallists.
2. A Partnership Beyond Sport
Their engagement marks a new chapter after years of working together as skating partners.
3. A Story of Resilience
Both athletes overcame significant physical challenges during their careers.
4. Inspiring the Next Generation
The pair have expressed a desire to help bring greater recognition to pairs skating in Japan.
After years of competing side by side, overcoming injuries and making history at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, Japan’s beloved Riku-Ryu are beginning a new journey together.
Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara are engaged, turning a remarkable sporting partnership into a personal milestone that has delighted fans across Japan and around the world.
