OLYMPICS: Figure skating-Japan's Nakai leads women's event after short program

MILAN – Japan’s Ami Nakai took the lead in the women’s figure skating short program at the Winter Olympics on Tuesday, surprising many as the 17-year-old delivered a standout performance.

Nakai scored a season-best 78.71, highlighted by a flawless triple Axel, putting her ahead of fellow Japanese skater Kaori Sakamoto, who sits in second place. Alysa Liu of the United States claimed third heading into Thursday’s free skate, where the medals will be decided.

It was a night of strong performances, but Nakai’s precision and daring jumps set her apart as the skater to watch in the final segment.

-Reporting by Rory Carroll in Milan/Reuters