Kazakhstan’s Mikhail Shaidorov pulled off a major upset in the Winter Olympics, taking the gold medal in the men’s singles ice skating competition.
The United States’ Ilia Malinin was the heavy favorite to capture gold, especially after acing the first part of his program, with the free skate set to be his crowning moment, but two tumbles netted him an eighth-place finish, not even on the podium.
Shaidorov benefited from Malinin’s tumbles, along with the mistakes of others as well, which opened up a gap for him to fill, and he delivered the best performance on the day.
With his victory, Shaidorov is earning a strong reputation worldwide and a nice payday, as his home nation will give him a notable reward.
According to the Sports Business Journal, athletes who win gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics for Kazakhstan receive $250,000, the most among all nations.
Shaidorov, along with the additional sponsorship money he will no doubt receive, will get the big paycheck from the Kazakhstan federation, rewarding him for putting the nation on the top step.
What else did Shaidorov get for his gold medal?
Kazakhstan singer Dimash Qudaibergen congratulated the skater on his feat and promised to give him a new car.
“Dear Misha, my brother! Congratulations on your Olympic gold! Your movement and mastery on the ice today have made you not just a champion – you have become a great man who has given the entire country hope, spirit, and inspiration,” Qudaibergen said in a statement on Instagram.
“You did not let down Denis, the pride of our country, my friend, your brother, whom our nation sadly lost. You fulfilled your duty to him, to the country, and to the people with honor and at the highest level.
“May your path on the ice continue to be bright and full of inspiration. Conquer the world with your art and reach new heights!
A special thank you for choosing a song performed by me at the Olympics – you truly made me happy as well. Thank you so much!
“In this regard, I would personally like to give you a small gift: an iron horse. Come to Astana Motors when, God willing, we both return to the country. A car from me!”
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