Haruhiko Mikimoto's Inori Yuitsuka Illustration for "Medalist" from "Macross" and "Hathaway" Creator Receives Rave Reviews: "Too Divine!" "On a Different Level"

The official X account for the "Medalist" anime has published a support illustration by creator Haruhiko Mikimoto, who worked on the original character design for anime such as "Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway," and it has become a major topic of conversation due to its high quality.

The published image depicts the main character, Inori Yuitsuka, gracefully dancing on the ice while wearing a vibrant pink costume. The dynamic pose and the particles of light swirling around her create a fantastical atmosphere, and a celebratory message reading "Congratulations! Medalist Season 2" is included at the top of the illustration. Additionally, a sketch of rival skater Ema Yamato is drawn in the lower right corner of the screen, blushing and murmuring "Inori-chan...," and Mikimoto's playful comment "Actually, she's secretly my favorite (lol)" can also be seen.

In response to this post, fans have sent numerous messages of praise such as "The transparency and nobility coexist, and I was overwhelmed even through the screen," "Haruhiko Mikimoto's Inori-san is too amazing," "Inori-chan is too beautiful and cute!" "Mikimoto-sensei is too divine!" "As expected, the art of someone who created an era is on a different level," and "Mikimoto-sensei!! I can totally support Emma-chan."

"Medalist" is a manga work by Tsurumaikada serialized in Kodansha's "Monthly Afternoon." It tells the story of Inori Yuitsuka and Tsukasa Akeuraji, who share a strong dream for figure skating and meet as "athlete and coach," aiming to become glorious "medalists." The TV anime Season 2 began broadcasting on January 24, 2026.

（C）つるまいかだ・講談社／メダリスト製作委員会