Medalist [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 13]

Medalist: A Journey of Dreams, Ice, and Unstoppable Passion

When Medalist first premiered in January 2025, it didn’t just introduce us to the world of competitive figure skating—it immersed us in the raw, emotional, and often brutal journey of chasing dreams. Produced by ENGI and directed by Yasutaka Yamamoto, this anime adaptation of the beloved manga quickly became a standout in the Winter 2025 season. And after 13 episodes, the finale left fans breathless, emotional, and desperate for more.

From Zero to Hero: Inori’s Unforgettable Rise

The heart of Medalist lies in its protagonist, Inori, a young girl who starts her journey with nothing but sheer determination. The first episode sets the tone: Tsukasa Akeuraji, a failed skater turned assistant coach, stumbles upon Inori’s raw talent and reluctantly takes her under his wing. What follows is a masterclass in character development.

Fans on MyAnimeList couldn’t stop raving about Inori’s growth. One user put it perfectly: “Inori wasn’t even officially learning all of this when we started. Twelve weeks for us, but a lifetime for her.” Her struggles—fear of failure, self-doubt, and the pressure of competition—are portrayed with such authenticity that you can’t help but root for her. By the finale, when she finally passes the Level Six Badge Test, the payoff is nothing short of cinematic.

The Rivalry That Fuels the Fire

No sports anime is complete without a compelling rival, and Medalist delivers with Hikaru. Though some fans felt her presence was lacking in the later episodes (“Hikaru lit up Inori’s fire, but where was she?”), her brief appearances were electric. The finale teased a future showdown at the All-Japans, leaving fans hyped for Season 2.

And let’s not forget Rioh, the cocky yet endearing rival who stole the show in the finale. “When we first met Rioh, I never imagined I’d be crying for that little shit,” one fan admitted. His growth, alongside Inori’s, made their final performances feel like a celebration of perseverance.

Animation & Soundtrack: A Visual and Auditory Feast

ENGI, a studio often criticized for inconsistent adaptations, outdid themselves with Medalist. The 3D skating sequences were fluid, dynamic, and breathtaking—especially in the finale. “The CGI suits the series so well,” noted a fan, comparing it to Ballroom e Youkoso.

The soundtrack also deserves a standing ovation. The finale’s OST was described as “fire” and “something out of a Disney film.” The music elevated every emotional beat, from Inori’s triumphant performance to the quiet, reflective moments with Tsukasa.

The Emotional Punch: Why Fans Can’t Stop Crying

Medalist isn’t just about skating; it’s about the people behind the sport. The finale hit hard with its emotional beats:
– Inori’s closure with her past, symbolized by her overcoming her fear of earthworms (yes, really).
– Rioh’s smile while skating, a moment fans called “so satisfying.”
– Tsukasa’s redemption, as he finally finds purpose in coaching.

“Not a single dry eye in the room,” one fan wrote. Another added, “I’ve never been so proud of a fictional character before.”

The Verdict: A Near-Perfect Season

While some critiques pointed out pacing issues (“The Level 6 exam felt rushed”), the overwhelming consensus is that Medalist is a gem. It balances intense competition with heartfelt character arcs, making it one of the best sports anime in recent years.

And with Season 2 already announced, the hype is real. “This is practically ENGI’s passion project at this point,” a fan noted. If they maintain this level of quality, Medalist could become a modern classic.

Final Rating: 9.5/10

Medalist isn’t just a show—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a sports anime fan or just love a good underdog story, this one’s a must-watch. Now, bring on Season 2!

What did you think of Medalist? Did the finale leave you in tears, or are you still waiting for Hikaru to steal the spotlight? Let’s discuss in the comments!