Figure Skating's Dark Secret: Is Kissing and Crying Worth the Mental Health Toll?

Figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi reflects on whether the intense scrutiny of her performance and kiss-and-cry routine during the 1992 Winter Olympics was worth the mental health toll she endured as a result. The pressure to perform perfectly may have led to feelings of anxiety and stress, potentially affecting her well-being in the long run. While the accolades from winning gold were undoubtedly fulfilling, Yamaguchi's experience serves as a reminder that competitive athletes often face a delicate balance between their passion for the sport and their mental health. The consequences of this pressure can be far-reaching and have lasting impacts on an athlete's life.