BOSTON (AP) — Maxim Naumov gracefully stopped in the center of the ice, gazing up at the sky and sending a silent message in Russian to his late parents: “I do this for you both. You are always with me. I love you.” Former world pairs champions Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in January, which resulted from a collision with a military helicopter nearing Washington, D.C., and crashing into the frigid Potomac River. Among the 67 fatalities were over two dozen individuals returning from a skating camp following the U.S. figure skating championships in Wichita, Kansas. Although Maxim Naumov had already returned home after placing fourth at nationals, he has now become a symbol of the tragedy’s impact on the skating community. “I’ve been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from everyone. It has been a lifeline that I never expected but am deeply grateful for,” Naumov expressed on Sunday. “It’s beyond words how much it has helped me navigate through each day. My heart is full from this love.” Naumov, 23, recently participated in a fundraising event in Washington that brought in over $1.2 million for the families of the crash victims. Reflecting on his performances at the world championships gala, Naumov shared that being on the ice offers him a respite from the tragedy. “Once I step onto the ice, everything else fades away. It’s like I’m having a conversation with my parents, and they guide me through this,” he explained. “I don’t hear the crowd, the announcers, or anything else. It’s just me, my thoughts, and their presence aiding me. Thinking of them, especially during my performances, gives me the strength to push forward.” The world championships, initially planned to take place at Boston’s Celtics and Bruins arena, brought attention to the plane crash and the historic Skating Club of Boston, a cherished spot for Olympians and recreational skaters. A tribute was held during the event, honoring those lost in the crash. Skaters Alisa Efimova, Misha Mitrofanov, and reigning U.S. champion Amber Glenn paid their respects to the young skaters, mothers, and coaches who perished by showcasing their memories. Ilia Malinin, dubbed the “Quad God,” dedicated his winning performance to the crash victims, concluding the event with an emotional tribute. Naumov, recognized during the gala as a member of the Skating Club of Boston, received a warm response from the audience, resonating with his personal journey. Dressed in simple attire, Naumov’s performance focused on evoking emotions rather than showcasing athletic prowess.
Naumov expressed how listening to Mac Miller’s posthumous 2020 release, “That’s on Me,” has been meaningful for him. Naumov shared that he has been repeatedly listening to Miller’s album “Circles,” finding it relatable and emotionally resonant given the unfortunate story of the artist’s passing due to an accidental drug overdose in 2018.
After completing his skate routine, Naumov took a moment to gather himself, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he felt from his fans. He conveyed that the emotions he was experiencing were difficult to label, but he was deeply appreciative of the encouragement he received. Naumov’s heartfelt gestures and words captured the depth of his feelings as he left the ice to a standing ovation, making a sign of the cross as a symbol of his gratitude.
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