OSAKA, Japan (AP) — Three-time world champion Kaori Sakamoto performed a near-flawless free skate on Saturday to defend her title in what she says will be her final NHK Trophy.

Sakamoto said in June she will retire from competition after next year’s Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics and was determined to put in a stirring performance at her home Grand Prix.

Skating to a selection of music from Edith Piaf, Sakamoto landed seven triple jumps to score a Grand Prix season-high score among all competitors of 227.18.

“It was a great experience for me to be able to perform in my home town,” said Sakamoto. “This was an international competition close to my local fans and I feel great I was able to put in such a strong performance.”

Combined with her second place finish at the Grand Prix de France,

See Full Page