I, Tonya

At just four years old, Tonya Harding is coerced into the world of ice skating by her oppressive mother, LaVona Golden. Despite her initial reluctance, Tonya discovers a talent for the sport, quickly winning her first competition within six months, demonstrating her potential in figure skating.

As Tonya grows, LaVona decides to pull her out of school to focus entirely on skating. Under coach Diane Rawlinson’s guidance, the intense training regime begins, but it's marred by LaVona's abusive tactics and unrealistic expectations that push Tonya to her limits.

LaVona’s abusive behavior escalates, severely impacting Tonya's confidence. A humiliating incident occurs when LaVona refuses to let Tonya use the bathroom, resulting in Tonya wetting her suit during a competition, further deepening the emotional scars.

Despite her mother's disapproval, Tonya begins a relationship with Jeff Gillooly. Initially charming, Jeff’s true nature reveals itself as he becomes increasingly abusive, mirroring the toxic dynamics of Tonya's childhood at home.

During the 1986 Skate America event, Tonya is emotionally confronted by LaVona and experiences a knife attack that shakes her to the core. This incident highlights the violent atmosphere surrounding her life, both at home and in the sport.

Despite the chaos in her personal life, Tonya makes history at the 1991 US skating nationals by becoming the first female figure skater to land two triple axles. This achievement marks a significant moment in her competitive journey and raises her profile in the skating community.

As Tonya’s fame grows, so does Jeff’s jealousy and violence. After a series of tumultuous episodes, Tonya decides to leave Jeff, a choice that briefly provides her with a clearer path but is often overshadowed by her emotional turmoil.

At the 1992 Winter Olympics, Tonya's struggles come to a climax as she delivers underwhelming performances, ultimately finishing in fourth place. This disappointment is compounded by her ongoing battle with Jeff's abuse, leading her to make the courageous decision to divorce him.

After her divorce, Tonya finds herself working as a waitress but is encouraged by Diane to prepare for the upcoming 1994 Winter Olympics. This opportunity presents a chance for redemption just two years after her last chance, igniting her determination to reclaim her place in the sport.

With the pressure building, Tonya receives a death threat before a critical competition, leading Jeff and his friend Shawn Eckardt to hatch a scheme targeting her competitor Nancy Kerrigan. Their inappropriate plan sets off a chain of events that will change Tonya's life forever.

Shawn's plan escalates as he hires two incompetent criminals who carry out an attack on Nancy Kerrigan, resulting in her injury. The swift apprehension of the attackers brings unwanted attention to Tonya and shifts media scrutiny onto her.

As the investigation unfolds, Tonya finds herself embroiled in the fallout from the attack. In a moment of clarity, she reports Jeff and Shawn's actions to the FBI, severing ties with the toxic relationship that has plagued her for years.

Tonya suffers the consequences of her involvement in the scandal and is ultimately suspended from competitive skating for life. Despite this devastating blow, she competes in the Olympics, finishing eighth, while Nancy takes home silver, marking a painful end to her career ambitions.

In the aftermath, Tonya tries to rebuild her life amidst public scrutiny. She experiences further personal trials but eventually finds happiness and starts a new family that emphasizes her desire to be seen as a devoted mother, striving to reshape her identity.

In the conclusion, Tonya expresses her longing for the world to acknowledge the good in her life, showcasing her current happiness with her third husband and their child. This closing sentiment encapsulates her journey of resilience and transformation.