The Cup of China is always a highlight of the Grand Prix figure skating season, but this year’s competition delivered something truly unforgettable. The audience inside the arena buzzed with anticipation as the top pairs warmed up, each one determined to put on a flawless performance. But from the moment Anastasiia Metelkina and Luka Berulava stepped onto the ice, it felt as though the atmosphere shifted.
There was a quiet confidence in their posture, a synchronicity in their movements, and an undeniable energy building around them. No one knew what would happen next, but most sensed something extraordinary was about to unfold.
The Rising Duo Ready for Their Moment
Anastasiia and Luka have been steadily gaining momentum in the competitive figure skating world. Their partnership is built on trust, hard work, and a shared vision of pushing their artistry and athleticism to higher levels with each season. In training, they had worked tirelessly to refine their lifts, sharpen their throws, and improve their transitions. Their team knew they were ready. Their fans believed in them. And now, on this icy stage in China, the duo was prepared to show everyone just how far they had come.
A Mesmerizing Short Program
Their short program was the first sign that they were skating on a different level. From the opening pose, the audience fell silent. As the music began, their timing was perfect—every glide, spin, and edge executed with astonishing precision. Their triple twist soared effortlessly, drawing gasps from the audience. Their side-by-side jumps landed cleanly, paired with matching lines and synchronized body movement that only the best partnerships can achieve.
The step sequence was a showcase of artistry. Anastasiia’s expressive upper body movements blended perfectly with Luka’s steady, commanding presence. Their skating was fluid, crisp, and emotionally captivating. When the program ended, the arena erupted into applause. Their high score put them comfortably in the lead—and it set the tone for what would become a defining moment in their careers.
Building Pressure Before the Free Skate
With the top position going into the free skate, expectations soared. The pressure was undeniable—other teams were strong, experienced, and hungry for victory. But Anastasiia and Luka handled it with remarkable calm. Behind the scenes, coaches watched as the pair went through their warm-up routine, focused and composed. There was no panic, no rush. They knew that all the preparation had already been done. Now, all they needed to do was skate with heart and trust each other fully.
A Free Skate Full of Emotion and Power
The lights dimmed, the music began, and the pair launched into their free skate with elegance and power. Their opening lift rose high above the ice, showcasing both Luka’s strength and Anastasiia’s grace. Each element that followed seemed to flow effortlessly into the next. Their throw jump soared across the rink, and Anastasiia landed with incredible steadiness. Their side-by-side triple jumps were clean and confident. Every detail—from facial expressions to their seamless transitions—pulled the audience deeper into their story.
The choreography was complex and beautifully structured. Their edges were deep and controlled, their spins perfectly in sync. Their spiral moments were breathtaking, highlighting the emotional depth of the performance. As the music swelled toward the final moments, they poured everything they had into their last lift and combination spin, finishing with a dramatic pose that left the entire arena roaring with applause.
