Inori Skating with a Wriggling Earthworm Plushie & Flustered Coach Tsukasa! Miki Yoshikawa of "A Couple of Cuckoos" Releases "Medalist" Support Illustration

An support illustration by manga artist Miki Yoshikawa, known for works such as "A Couple of Cuckoos," has been released via the official X account of the "Medalist" anime, and its unique composition brimming with dynamic energy has become a major topic of conversation.

The released image depicts the protagonist of this work, Inori Yuitsuka, dressed in a figure skating costume. She is vigorously gliding across the ice with a taiyaki in her mouth, and characteristically, an earthworm plushie is gripped in her hand.

What is particularly noteworthy is the depiction of this earthworm plushie, which is expressed as if it were alive, moving around violently. In response to its unexpected movements, the image captures a comical situation where her coach, Tsukasa Akeuraji, who is watching from behind, appears to be flustered and panicking in surprise.

This post has received many voices of praise from fans, such as "This collaboration illustration is too amazing~," "What an adorable illustration!," "Of course Coach Tsukasa would be in a big panic if the earthworm plushie suddenly started moving vigorously," "This sense of speed is irresistible," and "The earthworm is hilarious," as well as comments enjoying the unique situation.

"Medalist" is a manga work by Tsurumaikada serialized in Kodansha's "Monthly Afternoon." It is a story about Inori Yuitsuka and Tsukasa Akeuraji (CV: Takeo Ōtsuka), who harbor strong dreams of figure skating and meet as "athlete and coach," aiming for the glorious title of "Medalist." The TV anime's second season began broadcasting on January 24, 2026.

(C)つるまいかだ／講談社