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.