Maxim Naumov is paying tribute to his late parents in a heartfelt way. The 23-year-old figure skater received a warm, one-minute standing ovation as he performed in memory of his parents, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who were both champions in Russian figure skating. This poignant moment took place during the ISU World Figure Skating Championships held in Boston on March 30.
Before his performance, Maxim looked up to the sky, placed his hand on his heart, and silently spoke to his parents, who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash on January 29. The accident involved American Airlines Flight 5342 colliding with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter in Washington, D.C.
In a touching expression of his love, Maxim stated in Russian, “This is for you guys. You guys are with me. I love you both.” He continued to gesture to the audience and made the sign of the cross as he finished his routine.
Maxim, who had recently placed fourth at the 2025 U.S. Championships just days before this tragedy, performed to the song “That’s on Me” by Mac Miller. He shared how he has been listening to Mac Miller’s album “Circles” repeatedly, finding a deep connection with the artist’s story and emotions. As he expressed, music has become a way for him to cope with his feelings during this tough time.
The support he has received from friends and the skating community has been a source of comfort. He mentioned that since their passing, he has been overwhelmed by love and support, saying, “I don’t think I’ve walked through a hallway and haven’t given a hug since.” This community backing has helped him tremendously as he navigates through his grief.
Maxim also spoke about how skating allows him to escape and connect with his parents. “As soon as I hit the ice, my brain just… I tune everything out,” he explained. “I just have this internal dialogue, and they’re always there, too.” Being on the ice provides him a moment of calmness amidst the chaos of emotions that he faces daily.
His experience highlights the impact of tragedy on personal lives and the collective grief shared by many in the figure skating community, which lost not only Maxim’s parents but also other beloved members during the tragic crash. In total, 67 lives were lost that day, making it a monumental loss for those who knew and loved them.
