2022 Olympic champion Nathan Chen was named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people in 2022, thanks to his lifelong commitment to the sport of figure skating that continues to inspire new generations of skaters.
In the tribute penned by the most decorated figure skater in U.S. history, Michelle Kwan describes how Chen not only showed perseverance after an Olympic Winter Games 2018 that didn’t go as planned, but how he changed the sport of figure skating. He was the first skater to land six quad jumps in an international competition, taking men’s figure skating to new heights. As the first Asian American to win the men’s figure skating Olympic title, Chen has become a role model for many budding athletes.
“Grateful to those who paved the way so that I could pursue my dreams,” Chen said on his Instagram. “I am just floored to be included in this year’s TIME 100 list, alongside incredible artists, innovators, leaders and icons I so admire — and who I never imagined I’d see my name next to.
“Most of all, a special thank you to Michelle Kwan, whose career and accomplishments have inspired me for quite literally my entire life. I can only hope to make the kind of impact she has been for me and for so many others. Michelle, thank you for being the trailblazer I needed.”
