Yuzuru Hanyu rapidly improved his ability while competing with Patrick Chan. (4ページ目)

"In Canada, I strongly wanted to win because I saw Machida's win in the US," he said. "After that, Takahashi won the NHK trophy and it became difficult to overtake him, so I instead focused on things I could do, rather than aiming for the final.

If I missed a jump in the beginning of a sequence last season I was disappointed, but this time I could remain calm and make amendments. In the two weeks after Canada, I think it is reaching perfection, and I could probably make a good program for the final."

Again, however, Chan stood tall. He gained additional points for all elements in his free skate ─ including high scores of 9.39 and 9.86 for the five artistic components ─ and triumphed with the-then world record ─ 196.75 for free skate and a total of 295.27 points.

Chan's rich skill enabled him to jump elegantly even if the pivot was shaken once in a while. To slow tempo music, he showed great balance and imposing skating, with there always expression between the techniques. At the time Hanyu was highly regarded for his sharpness and pace, but in terms of solidness, Chan had the upper hand.

Even in that situation, Hanyu wasn't too preoccupied with Chan and the pressure, saying, "It was very beneficial to perform myself (in the short program).