Who is Maxim Naumov? American figure skater skates towards Winter Olympics 2026 carrying the memory of parents lost in tragic crash

Maxim Naumov is a 24 year old American figure skater who is all set to mark his appearance in the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics 2026. The skater recently went through a big tragedy as he lost his parents, the skating pair, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov. They were former world champions and his first coaches.

Naumov’s parents were among 67 people killed when American Airlines Flight 5342 crashed into a military helicopter near Washington in January 2025. Many victims were part of the figure skating world. One year later, Naumov finished third at the U.S. Championships. That result earned him a place on the American Olympic team for Milan-Cortina, turning pain into purpose.

Maxim Naumov’s road to success ahead of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics 2026

Maxim Naumov says he still finds time to connect with his parents in small but meaningful ways. He explains that once a week, he creates space to feel close to them. Sometimes it is through photos. Other times it is by talking about them. Speaking after finishing in the 3rd position in the U.S. Championships, he said this process has helped him heal and move forward emotionally.

Naumov began skating at the age of five, inspired by his parents. He quickly showed talent and won several U.S. titles at juvenile, novice, and junior levels. He also earned medals at international junior events and won the U.S. junior national title in 2020. After an injury break, he moved into senior skating and competed regularly at U.S. Championships, often finishing in the top five.

He represented the United States at major events like Four Continents and Grand Prix competitions. Despite personal tragedy in 2025, Naumov continued skating. He returned stronger, changed coaches, won an international gold medal, and bagged the podium at the 2026 U.S. Championships, to earn the honor of selection for the biggest sporting event in the world, the Winter Olympics.

In the U.S. Championships, Naumov delivered the best performance of his career. He later reflected on the sacrifices his family made and how far they had come together. Today, he wears a gold cross and a ring that once belonged to his father. He says sharing his story is a privilege. He hopes it reminds others that even in the darkest moments, there is always a way forward.





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