United States figure skater Ilia Malinin is embarking on a new journey. Following his infamous meltdown at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, the 21-year-old aims to make amends in the World Figure Skating Championships.
Malinin is currently competing in the Worlds, where his objective is to redeem his eighth-place finish in the Winter Games. The Fairfax, Virginia, native is also looking to defend his title. Malinin enters this year’s World Championships as the reigning two-time champion after winning the competition in 2024 and 2025.
Malinin headed to Prague not only with a renewed spirit, but also with a brand-new look.
© James Lang-Imagn Images
Malinin decided to get a haircut ahead of the Worlds. Fans have grown accustomed to his layered and flowy blonde hair. The wavy texture and his center-parted hairstyle have become a bit of a trademark for the figure skating star.
Malinin, however, changed it up for the competition. While his new style still has the familiar volume and texture, he decided to cut his hair short.
More of Ilia Malinin's new haircut for the 2026 World Championships.
📸 psvorada pic.twitter.com/Md5fp1Ng0e— Ilia Malinin Daily (@TheIliaSociety) March 24, 2026
Malinin’s change in physical appearance drew significant attention online.
“Just my POV a new cut/style can free your mind, spirt and lift you up! 💙” a comment on X read.
“One of my first thoughts is he wants the least resistance cuz he wants to do more than a quad axle😜” suggested another.
“He’s a very handsome young man no matter what! He’s getting ready to embark on a two month long Stars On Ice Tour with no breaks… until the end of May. Maybe he’s just gonna let it grow out that entire time and he doesn’t want it to get too long,” claimed a user.
“Love his new haircut. Looks so good on him….” a reaction read.
“Wait I kinda love it,” another said.
“Miss the loosely, long hair,” a fan wrote.
The World Championships started on Tuesday and are set to conclude on Sunday. Malinin is widely considered the favorite to win his third consecutive Worlds title.
Related: U.S. Figure Skater Ilia Malinin Shares Announcement After Winter Olympics