Surya Bonaly

Surya Bonaly not only emerged as a pioneering black figure skater at the highest levels but also etched her name as the sole Olympic figure skater to execute a one-bladed backflip. The move, famously known as the “Bonaly,” made its mark at the 1998 Olympics, a feat that set her apart. However, due to regulations, the move incurred point deductions, leading her to secure a tenth-place finish. As a remarkable nine-time French national champion from 1989 to 1997, Bonaly chose to retire from amateur competitions after the 1998 Olympics. Uniquely, she remains the sole Olympian figure skater to perform the daring backflip.

Post her 1998 Olympics retirement, Bonaly embarked on a journey with the Champions on Ice tour, gracing stages in Russia and New York. Beyond skating, she briefly ventured into acting, making appearances as an off-screen character in “Will & Grace” and featuring in “Judgement,” a production centered around individuals overcoming adversity. Her signature backflip continues to be a highlight, showcased on several occasions since the Olympics, including a memorable display at the age of 40 during an exhibition in São Paulo, Brazil. In recent times, her endeavors have encompassed coaching the upcoming generation of skaters and advocating for people of color within the realm of sports.