“Don’t Think Nathan Chen Is Going to Come Back”: US Figure Skating Star Makes an Upsetting Prediction for Fans

Nathan Chen is not going to make a comeback. A former athlete revealed that Quad King’s future in skating is uncertain. Chen, due to an unfortunate event, was forced to withdraw from the 2022 World Figure Skating Championship as well. Now the six-year champion’s skating journey seems to come to an end.

Nathan is a figure skating icon. The two-time Olympic medalist had shown keen interest in skating since the ripe age of three. Now, Chen has returned to Yale to complete his degree in data science. The former figure skating star, who is now a Podcast Host, revealed in his recent episode that prior to Milano Cortina 2026, Nathan Chen wouldn’t stage a comeback.

Adam Rippon’s revelation on Nathan Chen’s upcoming plans

Former US figure Skating Star Adam Rippon has maintained a close eye on skating through his podcast  “The Runthrough” with Wagner and others, naming Uno Shoma his current favorite skater. In an exclusive interview with Olympics.com, he was asked if he thinks his long-time training partner, Nathan Chen will be staging a comeback before Milano Cortina 2026.

He replied,”I don’t think Nathan Chen is going to come back. But what do I know? Maybe he will”. Thinking out loud about what drives Chen, Rippon later added, “I think it really depends on where Nathan’s motivation comes from,” he explained. “If it comes from wanting to improve or try different artistic choices, if he feels the motivation to compete, I think he absolutely still could.”, said Rippon.

Nathan Chen withdrew from the 2022 World Figure Skating Championship because of an injury. The Olympic medalist did not participate in the 2023 US Figure Skating Championship either and is currently focusing on his academic growth. In order to compete at a higher level, athletes must have a clear understanding of their goals and motivations. Taking breaks and exploring other artistic choices can also help rekindle an athlete’s enthusiasm for their sport. However, Adam would still love to see Chen back on the ice again.

Will Nathan find his way just like Adam Rippon?

Adam Rippon, who now hosts podcasts and is also a TV personality, is a former US figure skating star. Rippon was propelled into the international spotlight as one of the few openly queer sportspeople at the 2018 Olympic Winter Games in PyeongChang. Since then, Rippon has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in sports.

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Ultimately, like Rippon found his way to his true self, Chen might also find his way back to where he belongs. The star athlete’s decision to take a break from skating has left many fans wondering about his future plans. Nathan has expressed interest in exploring other opportunities and pursuing his academic goals but has not completely ruled out the possibility of returning to the ice.

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