1. A Fresh Take on Figure Skating
Most sports manga focus on team dynamics (like Haikyuu!!) or battle shonen tropes (like Kuroko’s Basketball). Medalist breaks the mold by zeroing in on the solitary, high-stakes world of figure skating. It explores:
- The loneliness of individual competition
- The mental health struggles of elite athletes
- The beauty and brutality of artistic expression
2. Complex Characters You’ll Root For
- Inori Aneko: Her journey from broken prodigy to reluctant mentor is heart-wrenching and inspiring.
- Tsunashi Ryota: His raw talent and naive optimism contrast perfectly with Inori’s jaded experience.
- Supporting Cast: Rivals, coaches, and family members add layers of conflict and growth.
Why Readers Love It:
You don’t need to know a triple axel from a salchow to connect with these characters. Their struggles are universal.
3. Art That Makes You Feel the Ice
Tsurumaikada’s artwork is a masterclass in motion. Key scenes include:
- Dynamic Skating Sequences: Fluid lines and speed lines that make you feel every rotation.
- Emotional Close-Ups: Subtle facial expressions convey joy, despair, and determination.
- Atmospheric Panels: Ice rinks glow with stage lights, while quiet moments feel intimate and raw.
Pro Tip: Read the physical volumes or high-quality digital releases to appreciate the artistry.
How Medalist Compares to Other Sports Manga
| Feature | Medalist | Yuri!!! on Ice | Haikyuu!! |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Individual sport | Individual sport | Team sport |
| Tone | Emotional, mature | Romantic, inspiring | Energetic, fun |
| Art Style | Realistic, detailed | Stylized, fluid | Dynamic, expressive |
| Themes | Redemption, mental health | Love, rivalry | Teamwork, growth |
Key Takeaway:
If you loved the emotional depth of Yuri!!! on Ice but crave more realism, Medalist is your next read.
Why You Should Read Medalist NOW (Not Later)
1. Perfect Timing for Anime Adaptation Hype
With the success of sports anime like Skate the Infinity and Yuri!!! on Ice, an anime adaptation of Medalist feels inevitable. Your article could become the go-to resource when it happens.
2. Appeals Beyond Sports Fans
You don’t need to love figure skating to enjoy this manga. It’s for fans of:
- Character-driven stories (Violet Evergarden, A Silent Voice)
- Psychological drama (March Comes in Like a Lion)
- Beautiful art (Your Name, Making a Way Through Life)
Final Verdict: Is Medalist Worth Reading?
Absolutely. Here’s why:
- Unique Niche: Few manga capture figure skating this authentically.
- Emotional Punch: It will make you cry, cheer, and reflect on your own dreams.
Who Should Read It?
- Fans of Yuri!!! on Ice seeking more realism.
- Readers who love character-driven stories.
- Anyone looking for the next big manga before it blows up.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Medalist
Q1: Where can I read Medalist manga?
You can read Medalist legally through:
- Kodansha’s official app (Manga UP!)
- Physical volumes (available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble)
- Digital platforms like BookWalker
Q2: Is Medalist suitable for all ages?
Yes! It’s rated Teen+ for mild language and emotional themes, but it’s appropriate for most readers.
Q3: How many volumes of Medalist are out?
As of July 2025, 13 volumes are available in Japan, with English translations catching up quickly.
Q4: Will Medalist get an anime?
Yes, the first season premiered in January 2025. A second season is set to premiere in January 2026.
Conclusion: Your Next Favorite Manga Awaits
Medalist isn’t just another sports manga—it’s a heartfelt, visually stunning masterpiece that deserves the spotlight. Whether you’re a figure skating fan or just love great storytelling, this series will leave you breathless.
Ready to dive in?
Grab the first volume today and discover why Medalist is 2024’s hidden gem.
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