Canadian ice dance legends Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir, who captured the hearts of fans worldwide during their gold medal-winning performance at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, recently opened up about their post-competitive lives. In a candid interview with *The Globe and Mail*, the duo discussed the challenges of retirement, their enduring friendship, and the influence of a controversial book by former rival Gabriella Papadakis.
The Glory of Pyeongchang
The unforgettable moment when Virtue and Moir danced to *Moulin Rouge* not only secured them Olympic gold but also propelled them into the limelight as cultural icons. Their performance was a testament to their extraordinary chemistry, captivating audiences and earning them accolades that extended far beyond the ice rink. However, both champions have admitted they rarely revisit their Olympic routines.
“I remember the feeling like it was yesterday,” Moir said, reflecting on their preparation and enjoyment during the event. “But I don’t like to watch. I just see the things I wish I had improved.” Virtue echoed this sentiment, revealing that while she doesn’t watch their performances, they have become a source of comfort for her family, especially during tough times, as her son found solace in their skating.
Navigating the Transition to Retirement
Retirement from competitive ice dancing in 2019 allowed Virtue and Moir to step away on their own terms, having achieved everything they set out to do. Yet, they acknowledged the emotional challenges that followed. “There was a void afterwards,” Virtue explained. “Almost every session with our sports psychologist in the lead-up to Pyeongchang touched on retirement. We had a plan, but it was still hard to lose such a significant part of our identities.”
Moir added, “It was freeing. I felt grateful to fulfil everything we wanted within the sport.” The duo’s journey from childhood friends to Olympic champions has shaped their lives, leaving them with lasting memories and bonds that transcend their on-ice personas.
Friendship Beyond the Ice
Despite their busy lives—Moir now serves as head coach at the Ice Academy of Montreal, while Virtue works as an executive adviser at Deloitte—both skaters maintain a close friendship, though they admit it’s not as frequent as they would like. “We have lots of long phone calls, but not enough face time,” Moir lamented, while Virtue noted that adjusting to life outside of constant training has made their communication more challenging.
When asked about the possibility of reuniting for another tour, Moir teased, “We’re retired. But my daughter has been asking, ‘Aunt Tessa, are we going to see you skate together?’” Virtue chimed in, “I haven’t skated since 2019. But if Scott was there, maybe it’d be fun to do something together.” Their playful banter showcases the deep bond they share, despite the realities of their new lives.
Reflections on Competition and Rivalry
The conversation inevitably turned to Gabriella Papadakis’s recent book, *Pour ne pas disparaître*, in which the French ice dancer expressed critical views about her former partner, Guillaume Cizeron. Moir reflected on Papadakis’s comments, suggesting they stemmed from the intense emotions of competition. “It feels like a very honest exploration of her feelings,” he remarked, acknowledging the complex dynamics of competitive relationships. Virtue added, “The pressure and vulnerability that come with competition can lead to these intense feelings. Every athlete experiences that to some degree.”
As the Milan Olympic Games approach, Virtue and Moir also offered advice to Team Canada, urging them to have confidence in their training and to remember that they have the support of the entire nation. “Sometimes we got lost in thinking anything less than gold was a failure,” Virtue stated, emphasising the importance of doing one’s best.
Why it Matters
The legacy of Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir extends well beyond their medals; it embodies the spirit of perseverance, friendship, and the emotional complexities of competitive sport. As they navigate life after retirement, their insights remind us of the challenges athletes face and the bonds they form. Their story is a powerful narrative of growth and support, resonating with fans and aspiring athletes alike, and it serves as a reminder that true success isn’t just about winning, but also about the relationships we build and the impact we leave behind.
