Figure skating-Mexico's Carrillo back at Games as Latin America's unlikely standard-bearer

MILAN, Feb 9 : Donovan Carrillo took up figure skating as a child to impress a girl but the Mexican is back for his second Olympics at Milano Cortina aiming to once again woo the crowds with a joyful style that has made him a fan favourite around the world.

Carrillo made history at Beijing 2022 by ending Mexico's three-decade absence from Olympic figure skating and becoming the first performer from Mexico to qualify for the free skate.

What began as a playful attempt to impress a childhood crush has evolved into a serious pursuit, bringing Carrillo international recognition through routines that blend technical precision with cultural flair and upbeat music, captivating audiences across Mexico, Latin America and beyond.

"This girl that I liked, and who was the reason why I started to skate, eventually quit but I was so involved with skating I just kept going," the 26-year-old said in an interview ahead of Tuesday's short program at the Milano Ice Skating Arena.

"I never planned to be a figure skater but look where I am now? I was able to find my passion. That's also something very important for all of us.

"It's a magical experience to be in my second Games. The support I feel not only from Mexicans, but also from Latin Americans, Italians, Spaniards.

"It's very special. Also to have my parents here for the first time is going to be something very special for my career."

Carrillo, the only Latin American figure skater at the Games, credited improved support since his 2022 Olympic debut, as backing from local sports authorities and private sponsors has allowed him to get elite training in Canada.

"Four years ago somehow I proved that this was possible and, fortunately, a good team has been put together," he told Reuters.

"Training