As the excitement builds toward the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, the US women’s figure skating team stands poised to end a nearly quarter-century medal drought and usher in a new era of American excellence on the ice. Leading this formidable trio is Amber Glenn, whose journey and recent triumphs have inspired fans and fellow athletes alike.
Amber Glenn: The Heart of the Team
At 26, Amber Glenn has emerged as a beacon of resilience and achievement in American figure skating. Having just secured her third consecutive U.S. national title—a milestone last achieved by the legendary Michelle Kwan—Glenn exemplifies the perseverance and skill the sport demands. Her calm determination and uplifting spirit resonate beyond competition; as she reflects, “All we’ve got to do is do our job.” Her message is clear: focus on execution, and the results will follow.
Joining Glenn are Alysa Liu and Isabeau Levito, two rising stars who complete what many consider the strongest American women’s Olympic figure skating team in decades. Liu, the reigning world champion and two-time national titleholder, brings youth and technical precision, while Levito’s recent breakthroughs signal a bright future. Together, they form a well-rounded group that reflects a mix of experience, raw talent, and compelling chemistry.
A Revival of American Figure Skating Glory
The US women’s figure skating scene hasn’t seen Olympic hardware since Sasha Cohen’s silver in 2006, closing a chapter filled with iconic champions such as Michelle Kwan, Tara Lipinski, and Sarah Hughes. These athletes secured a dominant legacy in the late 1990s and early 2000s, marking an era when American women frequently ascended the Olympic podium.
Since then, the landscape of international figure skating has shifted dramatically. Competitors from Russia, Japan, and South Korea have taken center stage, while American skaters often found themselves just shy of medal finishes. The current trio’s recent performances—captivating audiences at the U.S. Championships with flawless programs, technical daring, and artistic flair—signal that the tide is turning.
Looking Ahead to Milan 2026
The anticipation is palpable as Glenn, Liu, and Levito prepare to represent the United States in Milan. Each carries the weight of history and the hopes of a nation eager to see its women return to Olympic glory. Their camaraderie, encouragement, and shared ambition have transformed rivalry into a powerful bond.
Questions swirl: Can one of them capture gold? Could the U.S. repeat the rare feat of claiming multiple women’s figure skating medals as seen in 1998 and 2002? How will they contend with a strong Japanese contingent and Russia’s entry, Adeliia Petrosian?
While the answers will unfold on the Olympic ice, one thing is certain—this team embodies the spirit of a long-awaited resurgence. Amber Glenn, with her leadership and unwavering confidence, leads a charge that could redefine American women’s figure skating for years to come. The 2026 Olympics not only mark a competition but the start of a thrilling new chapter in a 25-year grudge match to reclaim American greatness.
