Wow, that is some sad news. I always wished he skated clean. He was great sometimes, but maybe he didn't have full confidence to go full way ahead most of the time. It happens to many great skaters. I wish Maxim a lot of good luck!
Always felt he had an underrated career that most other countries would happily take, he just had the misfortune of coming up after Yagudin/Plushenko in Russia. He said that he wants to be a coach going forward so good luck to him.
I know I'll miss him. I always liked him, he's quite a character and has a sunny personality.
However, I think he's doing the right thing. He's too inconsistent to really make a lasting difference, given the years he's already skating at top level. He can do everything to end up on every podium, but sometimes it's just a fall fest.
He's got a million interests and ideas, and he's newly in loooooove! He'll have a happy life, I've no doubt about it.
Maxim’s interviews this season reflect an impressive amount of growth in maturity and self-awareness. I’ve had a soft spot for him since the 2014 Oly. That lost opportunity, despite his winning nationals, must have been devastating to him as an eighteen-year old, and might have contributed to his troubles going forward. It’s great that he appears to be happy and motivated to take the next step in his life, and I wish him all the best for his future.