U.S. Olympic medalist ice dancer Alex Shibutani issued an apology after footage emerged of him berating his younger sister and ice dancing partner Maia during training. The incident, which occurred during a practice session, became public when the video was leaked on social media last month, sparking immediate discussion about the challenges of high-pressure competition and the personal dynamics within elite sports partnerships.
In a statement to reporters, Alex Shibutani said, “I feel terrible about it. Unfortunately, I lost my temper in training, and it shouldn’t have happened. I apologized to Maia right after our practice.” The outburst, which appears to have occurred during a particularly intense session, has raised questions about the psychological demands of competing at the highest level. The siblings, who have skated together most of their lives, are widely recognized as one of the most successful ice dancing pairs in U.S. history.
Maia Shibutani expressed understanding for her brother’s behavior, acknowledging the intensity of their shared goals. “When you are working toward being your best there are going to be intense moments, but for us we understand each other and the process,” she said. The pair, known for their deep connection and commitment to each other, continue to train and prepare for upcoming competitions, including the Finlandia Trophy and U.S. nationals in January.
Despite the incident, the Shibutani siblings remain focused on their athletic ambitions. After their successful performance at the NHK Trophy, they will compete again at the Finlandia Trophy in two weeks, with U.S. nationals scheduled for January. Their journey has not been without challenges, including a seven-year break from competition after Maia was diagnosed with a malignant kidney tumor in 2019. She underwent extensive treatment and recovery, which led to a prolonged hiatus from the sport. Now, they are attempting a comeback in hopes of qualifying for the Milan-Cortina Games.
Both Alex and Maia have spoken about the unique nature of their partnership, noting that their bond as siblings and athletes has helped them navigate the pressures of elite competition. “We have a very unique, special relationship and we are committed to each other and to this process,” Alex said. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the emotional toll of professional sports, as well as the importance of mental health and accountability in high-profile athletic careers.