The 2025/26 ISU Short Track season marks the end of an era, as several of the sport’s most accomplished athletes bring their competitive careers to a close.

From Olympic champions to long-standing leaders of the sport, we look back at the achievements and legacy of the skaters who have helped shape Short Track on the world stage.

Kim Boutin of Canada reacts to completing the Women's 500m final B during the ISU World Short Track Speed Skating Championship 2026 in Montreal, Canada © ISU

Kim Boutin

Canadian icon Kim Boutin brings to a close one of the most successful careers in Short Track history, retiring with six Olympic medals and 16 ISU World Championship podium finishes.

Renowned for her versatility across all distances and her consistency at the highest level. Her impact extends beyond results, leaving a lasting legacy as one of Canada’s greatest winter athletes and a defining figure of her generation.

*Related article | Short Track waves fond farewell to Canadian icon Kim Boutin

 Sjinkie Knegt celebrates in the Men's 1500m B-final during the ISU World Cup Short Track in Dordrecht, Netherlands in 2020 © ISU

Sjinkie Knegt

Sjinkie Knegt concludes a remarkable international career spanning nearly two decades, during which he became a trailblazer for Dutch Short Track. Competing at four Olympic Winter Games, he won Olympic silver in 2018 and bronze in 2014, while consistently featuring among the world’s top skaters.

A pioneer who helped elevate the sport’s popularity in the Netherlands, Knegt claimed European titles, World Championship medals and set a long-standing 1500m world record. His longevity, resilience — including a comeback from severe injury — and influence on future generations cement his legacy as one of the sport’s most respected figures.

*Related article | Dutch Short Track great Sjinkie Knegt retires

Wu Dajing reacts in the Men's 500m final during the ISU World Cup Short Track in Dordrecht, Netherlands, in 2021 © ISU 

Wu Dajing

Wu Dajing retires as one of the most dominant sprint specialists in Short Track history and a central figure in China’s rise in the sport. Olympic champion in the 500m at PyeongChang 2018, he delivered a historic performance by setting multiple world records on his way to gold, establishing himself among the fastest skaters ever over the distance.

Known for his explosive starts and technical precision, Wu also claimed World Championship titles and played a key role in China’s relay success on the global stage. Beyond his results, he inspired a new generation of athletes and helped elevate the profile of Short Track both nationally and internationally, leaving behind a legacy defined by speed, consistency and breakthrough performances.