Meet the U.S. Olympians Who Will Define the 2026 Games

Introduction

On February 10, the highly anticipated 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics will commence, and this year's Games promise not just thrilling competitions but also powerful narratives that embody the spirit of the athletes. From veterans to young talents, the U.S. delegation is ready to showcase its strength across multiple disciplines. Here are 32 Olympians to watch, each with a compelling story set to unfold on the international stage.

Ilia Malinin, Figure Skating

Event: Men's Short Program (Feb. 10, 12:30 PM ET) — Men's Free Skate (Feb. 13, 1 PM ET)

Ilia, affectionately dubbed the "Quad God," is at the forefront of the figure skating world. At just 21, he's already made history by landing the quadruple axel in competition—a feat that has eluded even the most seasoned skaters. With a penchant for jaw-dropping performances, Malinin is not just competing; he's redefining the sport. His consistency and athleticism all but guarantee that the spotlight will stay on him as he aims for Olympic glory.

Amber Glenn, Figure Skating

Event: Women's Short Program (Feb. 17, 12:45 PM ET) — Women's Free Skate (Feb. 19, 1 PM ET)

Amber Glenn is not just an extraordinary athlete; she's a trailblazer. At 26, she's the oldest woman in nearly a century to represent the U.S. in singles figure skating. Known for her signature triple axel, which only a select few women can land, Glenn will also contribute to the team event—a testament to her versatility.

Alysa Liu, Figure Skating

Event: Women's Short Program (Feb. 17, 12:45 PM ET) — Women's Free Skate (Feb. 19, 1 PM ET)

Having clinched a national champion title at just 13, Alysa Liu is only 20 but already has a wealth of experience. After a break from competitive skating, she returned with a world championship title. In Milan, Liu intends to utilize her blend of grace and technical prowess to further solidify her legacy.

Mikaela Shiffrin, Alpine Skiing

Event: Women's Giant Slalom (Feb. 15, 4 AM ET) — Women's Slalom (Feb. 18, 7:30 AM ET)

Few in the sporting world can match the accolades of Mikaela Shiffrin. With an unprecedented 107 World Cup wins, this 30-year-old dominator of alpine skiing carries an extraordinary weight of expectation this time around. After an uncharacteristic Olympic showing in 2022, Shiffrin has returned with renewed focus and consistency, determined to leave her mark in Cortina.

Lindsey Vonn, Alpine Skiing

Event: Women's Downhill (Feb. 8, 5:30 AM ET) — Women's Super-G (Feb. 12, 5:30 AM ET)

As a legend of the sport, Lindsey Vonn stands on the precipice of yet another milestone. At 41, she has the potential to become the oldest alpine skier to win an Olympic medal—an impressive achievement following her groundbreaking 2010 victory. Despite facing injury challenges, Vonn's grit and determination are unmistakable as she seeks a triumphant return.

Hilary Knight, Hockey

Event: Women's Gold Medal Final (Feb. 19, 1:10 PM ET)

In a celebrated 20-year career, Hilary Knight has become a beacon for U.S. women's hockey. This will be Knight's fifth and final Olympic appearance, a fitting conclusion for a player who has shifted the landscape of women's sports. As she gears up for her last competition, the veteran's influence is palpable, reminding us of her commitment to excellence.

Jordan Stolz, Speedskating

Event: Men's 1,000m (Feb. 11, 12:30 PM ET) — Men's 500m (Feb. 14, 10 AM ET)

Jordan Stolz is a name that echoes with promise. At just 21, this speedskating prodigy has amassed seven world championship titles in three years, making him a frontrunner to earn multiple Olympic medals. Notably, he seeks to become the second American ever to achieve three golds in a single Winter Games—a historic feat that would solidify his place in Olympic history.

Introduction of Other Noteworthy Athletes

The richness of talent doesn't stop with these pioneers. The U.S. team boasts a dazzling array of athletes in various disciplines, each bringing unique stories and aspirations to the Games:

• Chloe Kim, aiming for her third consecutive Olympic halfpipe title.
• Kendall Coyne Schofield, a speed dynamo advocating for gender equality in hockey.
• Red Gerard, a youthful snowboarder with a second chance at Olympic glory.
• Jessie Diggins, the face of U.S. cross-country skiing.

Conclusion

The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics are not just about medals; they represent dreams, resilience, and the essence of sportsmanship. As these athletes prepare to etch their names into history, I invite you to witness their journeys with me. These Olympics will be a testament to what it means to rise, fight, and excel on the world's largest stage. Join me in celebrating their stories!