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U.S Olympic Figure Skating Team: A Deep Dive Into The Lineup

  • effieangiekim
  • Jan 14
  • 3 min read

As the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics approach in Feburary, the U.S has nominated 16 figure skaters to their team. The team consists of seasoned champions, emotional comeback stories, and rising stars. These selections were made following the Prevagen U.S Figure Skating Championships in St.Louis.


Men's Singles: Power, Precision, and Triumph

Ilia Malinin

The reigning U.S champion and one of the world's most technically gifted skaters, Malinin clinched his fourth consecutive national title in St.Louis. Despite tweaking his quad due to boot issues, he delivered a performance that underscored his competitive consistency. His blend of jump difficulty and poise makes him one of Team USA's strongest medal contenders in Milan.


Andrew Torgashev and Maxim Naumov

Both men earned Olympic spots with strong showcases. Torgashev brought renewed energy after reshaping his approach with new coaching. Naumov had a very emotional journey this season. He punched his ticket to the Olympics only a short year after his parents tragically died in a plane crash (Both of his parents were also former world champions and passionate coaches.) Their legacy is clearly living on in his skating. His performance doubled as a heartfelt tribute to them and their work.


Women's Singles: Record-Setting and Returning

Amber Glenn

Glenn made headlines by winning her third straight U.S title at the Prevagen Championships. She excelled on the ice with a clean and powerful triple axel. She performed with emotion and brought a mature scene to the ice, showing her readiness for the Olympics. She also took home a new record. Glenn scored 83.05 in the short program, a record-breaking score.


Alysa Liu

A former world champion made her return this season. Liu's short program portrayed her charisma and creativity as it electrified the crowd at the Enterprise Center and set the tone for her comeback. Her competitive fire and unique concept, paired with her technical content makes her a threat to other skaters in the Olympics.


Isabeau Levito

Levito is known for her elegance and musicality. She earned her spot at the Olympics with her balanced programs and consistent scoring throughout the season. Levito is a rising force who adds depth and creativity to the Women's contingent.


Together, this trio represents a resurgent era for the American skating team fighting to break a two decade olympic medal drought.


Ice Dance: Experience Meets Mastery

Madison Chock and Evan Bates

The returning duo rewrote the U.S record books with their seventh national ice dance title, showcasing a compelling blend of athleticism and artistry. The duo's free skate was a contemporary, flamenco-influenced program that captivated the judges and fans, solidifying their standing as Olympic medal hopefuls.


Emilea Zingas/Vadym Kolesnik and Christina C./Anthony P.

Rounding out the dance roster, both duos bring international experience and strong past-season resumes. The precision, rhythm, and growth throughout the season set both pairs up well for the Olympic segments.


Pairs: Strength in Depth

The U.S Olympic pairs entries include Ellie Kam and Daniel O'Shea, and Emily Chan and Spencer Howe. These two teams demonstrated consistency and technical polish in nationals and across their international events. Though the top expected pairs faced citizenship hurdles, these duos stepped up during the most important time and secured their Olympic spots.


Looking Ahead: Milano-Cortina 2026

Team USA's 2026 figure skating squad blends powerhouse jumpers, seasoned performers, and emotionally charged, passionate athletes. Each brings a compelling story to the world stage. From Manlinin's technical skills to Glenn's historic run, and Naumov's emotional legacy, the roster embodies the depth of American skating talent.


With ambitions set on multiple medals and a strong showing in the team event, U.S figure skating enters the Olympics with confidence and momentum. The team brings a testament to resiliency, artistry, and spirit that has been building all season.

 
 
 

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