Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue announce retirement from ice dance

Sep 18 2019, 12:47 pm

Canada’s ice dance sweethearts, Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue, announced they will retiring from the sport after 22 years of skating together.

In a video posted on Twitter, the Olympic champions addressed fans with a heartfelt message.

“We have some news for everyone. For our fans who have supported us. It’s a little bit emotional so bare with us. We didn’t know how to tell you but I guess the best way for us is  just go where we’re most comfortable,” said Moir as he and Virtue skate around an ice rink.

Calling it a “personal” and “emotional” decision, Virtue said that after 22 years of skating together, it “feels like the right time” for her and Moir to “step away from the sport.”

“We’re just so lucky… that we got to share this together and with all of you.”

Moir and Virtue captured the world’s attention during the 2018 Olympic Winter Games in Pyeongchang winning gold medals in both the team and ice dance competitions.

The duo’s now-famous Moulin Rouge ice-dance routine showcased their on-ice chemistry and also sparked rumours about their relationship status (if you’re still wondering, they are just friends).

Moir and Virtue also won gold in ice dance at the 2010 Vancouver Games and took home a pair of silver medals the 2014 Games in Sochi. The pair are the most decorated figure skaters in Olympic history.

They were expected to announce their retirement soon after the 2018 Winter Games but continued touring across Canada.

In the video, Virtue confirmed she and Moir still have about two months before stepping off the ice for good. They kick off their cross-Canada Rock the Rink Tour on October 5 in Abbotsford, BC with their final stop scheduled for November 23 in St. John’s Newfoundland.

“It just feels for us like it’s the right time to say goodbye but we’re still loving and enjoying the sport as much as we always have,” said Moir.

“Thank you so much for your unwavering support. It truly has meant the world to us and you know, we’re in such good hands in Canada,” said Virtue. “The next generation of skaters is going to blaze new trails, break all of our records, and we can’t wait to cheer them on.”

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