UPDATE: Team USA has successfully defended its gold medal in the figure skating team competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics, clinching victory in a nail-biting finish against Japan. The competition culminated in a dramatic final skate on February 10, 2026, as the U.S. and Japan faced off in a closely contested battle, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Led by the extraordinary performances of their star athletes, including Ilia Malinin, Team USA entered the event as favorites. Despite a fall during his skate, Malinin scored a remarkable 200.03, which proved crucial in securing gold for the team. “That was all he needed to do,” commented Olympian and commentator Johnny Weir, emphasizing the uniqueness of Malinin’s backflip—a move not seen at the Olympics in decades.
In a surprising twist, Japan’s Shun Sato executed a near-perfect routine, earning 194.86, but ultimately fell short of the gold. Earlier in the event, Yuma Kagiyama had boosted Japan’s score with a stellar performance in the short program, but the decision to substitute him for Sato in the free skate proved pivotal.
The stakes were especially high for Team USA, which entered the Milan Cortina Games as the defending champions. After a controversial medal ceremony absence in 2022 due to a doping investigation, this victory marks a triumphant return to form for the U.S. team.
With the individual events still ahead, Team USA is poised for further success, as several skaters are strong contenders. The momentum from this team’s gold medal win fuels optimism for additional accolades in the days to come.
As the Olympic drama unfolds, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on individual performances and potential medal opportunities. Team USA’s journey continues, and the excitement is palpable.
