Michael Christian Martinez of the Philippines performs during the men’s short program figure skating in the Gangneung Ice Arena at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Gangneung, South Korea, Friday, Feb. 16, 2018. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
MANILA, Philippines—Two-time Olympian Michael Martinez will not be competing in the Nebelhorn Trophy, a Winter Games qualifying event, as he turns his focus on recovering from his injuries, the Philippine Skating Union announced Friday.
Both Martinez and his coach Nikolai Morozov said the priority is recovering the skater’s health and conditioning with his “on and off injuries.”
“Michael’s team has decided to completely dedicate the remainder of the competition season towards longer preparation for future international tournaments,” said the PHSU in a statement.
“The Philippine Skating Union supports his decision and will continue to do so should he decide to join future competitions. The union wishes Michael a speedy recovery and the best for his endeavors.”
Martinez, who competed in the 2014 and 2018 Winter Games, is training in Moscow, Russia and continues to adapt to the new programs given to him.
“His love for the sport remains unwavered and hopes to come back stronger in creating a mark on the international stage of skating as a proud Filipino,” said the PHSU.
Martinez first rose to public consciousness when he won the 2012 Crystal Skate of Romania, his first senior title, eventually becoming the first skater in the Winter Olympics to come from Southeast Asia when he competed in the 2014 Sochi Games.
He has since won gold in the 2015 Asian Trophy and a silver in the 2017 Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asian Games.
“Despite the three-year absence from competing, Michael is ultimately grateful for all the outpouring support given to him since the beginning of his Olympic journey,” said the PHSU. “He will continue to recover well, work hard, and devote his time to skating his best.”