The Athletic is set to provide live coverage of the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics, shining a spotlight on athletes like Amber Glenn, whose journey in figure skating is both inspiring and transformative. As the U.S. women’s figure skating scene prepares for the global stage, Glenn’s determination and resilience have positioned her as a leading contender for gold in Milan.
At 26 years old, Glenn stands out in a sport often dominated by younger athletes, showcasing that age can bring wisdom and strength. She recently captured her third consecutive U.S. championship, achieving the highest-scoring free skate of her life, and setting a national record in the short program just a month prior. Despite the pressures of competition, Glenn displayed remarkable emotional fortitude, pushing through personal struggles to achieve her goals.
Glenn’s rise has not been linear; after becoming the U.S. junior champion at just 14, she faced considerable setbacks, including battles with mental health issues that led to a hiatus from the sport. This challenging period shaped her resilience, allowing her to emerge stronger and more authentic. By embracing her identity, Glenn left behind the pressure to conform to traditional standards within figure skating, ultimately carving out her own space in the sport.
Throughout her career, she has been vocal about mental health advocacy and her bisexuality and pansexuality, using her platform to inspire others and foster a supportive environment within figure skating. This willingness to be open and authentic has resonated with fans and fellow skaters alike, with younger competitors like Alysa Liu and Isabeau Levito looking up to her as a mentor and friend.
As Glenn prepares for her Olympic debut, she stands at a critical juncture in her career. If she were to win gold, she would make history as the oldest American female champion since 1908 and would end the United States’ long wait for a medal in women’s singles figure skating. With her unique story and indomitable spirit, Amber Glenn not only aims for Olympic glory but also seeks to redefine what it means to be a champion in a sport that is evolving to celebrate individuality and authenticity.
Glenn’s journey serves as an empowering reminder that perseverance and self-acceptance can foster greatness, particularly in environments that have traditionally favored conformity. As the Winter Olympics draw closer, fans await to see how Glenn will use her powerful narrative and competitive edge to make history on the world stage.