Medalist Anime Episode 2: Release Date, Streaming Options, and Key Details

Medalist is generating considerable excitement as one of the standout sports anime of the Winter 2025 season, and its inaugural episode is now available! The story revolves around a professional ice skater whose life is profoundly changed after meeting a young aspiring skater. This first episode delivers a captivating introduction that promises an inspiring narrative, much like many exhilarating shounen anime that ignite the spirit of ambition in viewers.

In this article, we will recap the key moments from the first episode of Medalist, share insights on the release date for episode two, and discuss some anticipations for future episodes. If you have a penchant for sports anime, this series is certainly worth checking out!

1. Release Date for Medalist Episode 2

Mark your calendars: Medalist Episode 2 is set to air on January 11, 2025. Fans can stream the series through official platforms, including Hulu and Disney Plus.

I. Will Medalist Be on Break Next Week?

No breaks are anticipated; Episode 2 will follow the original schedule without any delays.

2. Episode 1 Recap: Medalist

Medalist: Tsukasa Akeuraji | Source: Studio Enji

The premiere episode introduces us to Tsukasa, a character who has recently taken on the role of assistant coach at an ice skating club. When Tsukasa encounters a girl sneaking into the rink without a paid entry, he instinctively pursues her. Upon finally catching up, he learns that her name is Inori, and she is passionate about ice skating, albeit in secret due to her mother’s disapproval.

Resonating with Inori’s struggles, Tsukasa provides her with a list of local ice skating clubs, encouraging her to discuss them with her mother. He identifies that it’s an optimal age for her to begin skating, reflecting on his own late start and the impact it had on his career choices.

Medalist: Inori and her mother | Source: Studio ENGI

The following day, Inori arrives at the skating club with her mother, who candidly shares her reservations rooted in a past family incident involving another daughter. Despite her mother’s initial intent to dissuade Inori, Tsukasa recognizes her determination and invites her to demonstrate her capabilities on the ice.

To everyone’s astonishment, Inori showcases an impressive proficiency in basic skating skills. Tsukasa’s excitement mounts as he introduces her to more complex techniques. However, despite witnessing her talent, Inori’s mother remains firmly against her participation, leading Tsukasa to passionately argue for Inori’s potential. He pledges to elevate her to national competition levels, ultimately persuading Inori’s mother to allow her to pursue her dream. The episode concludes with Inori’s delightful smile, signaling a new chapter ahead.

3. Speculations for Episode 2 of Medalist

In the upcoming episode, we anticipate Tsukasa beginning Inori’s coaching in fundamental skating techniques. While Inori exhibits remarkable talent, she still lacks practical experience on the ice. Tsukasa’s promise to her mother to cultivate Inori’s skills into excellence adds weight to the upcoming challenge of transforming a novice into a top competitor.

The first episode primarily focused on establishing Inori’s character; thus, viewers can expect deeper insights into Tsukasa’s background and the motivations that led him to ice skating. While he briefly shared the fear that held him back as a child, further exploration into his past experiences will enrich the narrative.

4. About the Medalist Series

Medalist is a sports manga penned and illustrated by Tsurumaikada, first appearing in Kodansha’s Monthly Afternoon magazine in May 2020. As of May 2023, the series has been compiled into eight volumes.

The story follows Tsukasa Akeuraji, a once-aspiring solo ice skater who shifted to ice dancing after starting too late. His journey intertwines with that of Inori Yuitsuka, a fifth-grader who secretly trains in ice skating, mirroring Tsukasa’s past struggles.

With renewed passion, Tsukasa is determined to coach Inori, aiming to guide her to Olympic success in figure skating.

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