U.S. figure skating is gearing up for a remarkable performance at the Winter Olympics in Milan, with a team that some experts describe as the strongest in years. Following a triumphant showing at the Beijing 2022 Games, where the U.S. secured gold in both the team and men’s events, this year’s roster is brimming with talent and potential. According to Ashley Wagner, a three-time national champion and 2014 Olympic medalist, the depth of U.S. talent excites her: “I cannot believe the talent and the depth of the U.S. field…what makes me really excited for the Olympics.”
The U.S. team boasts a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, including reigning world champions Ilia Malinin, Alysa Liu, and the ice dance duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates. The team comprises three men, three women, three ice dance pairs, and two sets of pairs, all set to compete in a packed schedule starting with a multi-day team event on February 6, 2026. The team was finalized in mid-January during the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in St. Louis. Justin Dillon, U.S. Figure Skating’s senior director of athlete high performance, expressed his optimism about the squad’s potential: “I believe we have a team that across the board will be remembered for years to come.”
Men’s Singles: A New Generation of Talent
In the men’s singles category, Ilia Malinin emerges as Team USA’s best hope for gold. The 21-year-old reigning four-time U.S. champion has not lost a competition since 2023 and is known for his groundbreaking performances, including being the first skater to land a quadruple Axel in international competition. Malinin aims to make history at his first Olympics, stating, “There are three Olympic cycles that I want to skate.”
Joining him are Andrew Torgashev, who earned silver at nationals, and Maxim Naumov, who has shown incredible resilience following a personal tragedy. Naumov, whose parents were among the victims of a tragic plane crash in January 2025, expressed his determination, saying, “It’s all about being resilient. What if, despite everything that happened to me, I can still go out there and do it?”
Women’s Singles: Overcoming Challenges
Among the women’s competitors, Amber Glenn stands out as a first-time Olympian at age 26. She has gained recognition for her athleticism and resilience, as well as her advocacy for mental health awareness and inclusivity in the sport. Glenn noted, “Seeing some of those struggles…can help young people acknowledge, ‘Hey, I have the same thing.'”
Alysa Liu, at just 20, is making a comeback after a brief retirement, having previously made history by becoming the youngest skater to land a triple Axel in competition. Liu’s return to the sport has been marked by success, culminating in a World Championships gold in March 2025. “Quitting was definitely…one of my best decisions ever,” she remarked, reflecting on her journey back to the ice.
The youngest member of the team, Isabeau Levito, age 18, has rapidly ascended the ranks, winning the U.S. championship in 2023 and the world silver medal in 2024. Her personal connection to the upcoming Games adds a special significance, as her family hails from Milan.
Pairs and Ice Dance: Veterans and Newcomers
In the pairs category, the U.S. will be represented by Ellie Kam and Danny O’Shea, who have been partners since 2022. O’Shea, now 34, has long aspired to compete at the Olympics and has overcome numerous hurdles to achieve his dream. “It’s been quite a few years of not making the team,” he stated, highlighting his perseverance.
They will be joined by Spencer Howe and Emily Chan, who have shown tremendous growth since forming their partnership in 2019. Howe, a member of the U.S. Army’s World Class Athlete Program, has balanced his military service with his passion for skating.
In ice dance, the renowned duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates are set to captivate audiences once again. As three-time Olympians and reigning world champions, they have built a strong connection both on and off the ice. Their performances often reflect their chemistry as a couple, with Chock stating, “I think our chemistry really comes through when we perform.”
They will be joined by Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik, as well as Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko, both of whom have had to navigate challenges to secure their spots on the Olympic team.
As Team USA prepares for the Winter Olympics, the stories of these athletes reflect not only their dedication to the sport but also their personal journeys of resilience and triumph. With a roster full of talent and ambition, the upcoming Games in Milan promise to be a showcase of excellence for U.S. figure skating.
