Former world figure skating champions Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps are feeling rejuvenated as they approach the upcoming Olympic year. The pair, who clinched the gold in 2024, faced challenges in defending their title in the following season. Now, they are refocused and eager to chase success once again.
“We’re in a great position,” Stellato-Dudek expressed. “Perhaps this setback was necessary to reignite our drive to reclaim the top spot, without the weight of expectation holding us down.”
Deschamps echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the thrill of pursuing their goals with clarity. “Having a clear target ahead motivates us to aim higher and push ourselves,” he added.
Following their historic victory in Montreal, where Stellato-Dudek made history as the oldest woman to win a world title at 40, the duo struggled to replicate their success. Despite securing two gold medals on the Grand Prix circuit and retaining their national title, they found themselves unsatisfied.
Their performance took a hit at the Boston world championships, resulting in a fifth-place finish primarily due to a low score in the short program. Additionally, they encountered various challenges, including Deschamps falling ill with a severe fever and Stellato-Dudek battling shoulder, ankle, and wrist injuries.
One contributing factor to their struggles was the lack of an off-season. After their triumph in Montreal, they embarked on a whirlwind tour, performing in various events without a break. This year, they utilized the time to strategize their comeback, meticulously analyzing and improving every aspect of their routines.
Stellato-Dudek’s rigorous off-ice regimen, which includes specialized recovery techniques, reflects her unparalleled dedication to the sport. Mike Slipchuk, Skate Canada’s high-performance director, commended their progress during the off-season, noting a positive shift back to their championship-winning form.
A significant milestone from the previous season was Stellato-Dudek acquiring Canadian citizenship, making them eligible for the 2026 Winter Games. Their long-standing ambition to compete in Milan is now within reach, marking a pivotal moment in their careers.
As they gear up for the upcoming season, Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps will unveil new programs choreographed by Lori Nichol at the John Nicks Pairs Challenge in New York. Promising a groundbreaking element in their routines, they are poised to captivate audiences with innovative performances.
The pair will showcase their artistry at two Grand Prix events this fall before competing in the Canadian figure skating championships in January, leading up to the highly anticipated Olympic Games in February.