Figure skaters are known for their graceful, delicate performances at the Winter Olympics – but when their routine warms up, so does the intensity which is shown in their facial expressions.
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As these best-in-the-world athletes compete for gold, as the elegant ice darlings hurl themselves across the ice and into the air, gravity takes its toll on the skaters, tugging and warping their faces into not-so-elegant expressions.
From Canada’s Patrick Chan and American Adam Rippon to Japan’s Yuzuru Hanyu and Javier Fernández of Spain, here’s a look at some of the most intense, and silly facial expressions Olympic figure skaters make during competition.
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1.
Adam Rippon of the United States.
The Canadian Press/Paul Chiasson
2.
Micha Ge of Uzbekistan.
The Canadian Press/Paul Chiasson
3.
Cha Junhwan of South Korea.
AP Photo/Julie Jacobson
4.
Yan Han of China.
The Canadian Press/Paul Chiasson
5.
Canada’s Patrick Chan.
The Canadian Press/Paul Chiasson
6.
Shoma Uno of Japan.
The Canadian Press/Paul Chiasson
7.
Denis Ten of Kazakstan.
The Canadian Press/Paul Chiasson