At the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics, the U.S. figure-skating team clinched gold, capturing the hearts of fans well before their victory on Sunday. The trio, affectionately dubbed the “Babes of Glory” and self-referentially known as the “Blade Angels,” includes Alysa Liu, the charismatic 20-year-old from the Bay Area; Amber Glenn, a proud 26-year-old queer athlete from Dallas; and the charming 18-year-old Isabeau Levito, representing New Jersey. This close-knit team has become emblematic of modern athleticism, challenging the stereotype of suffering as the path to greatness.
Their journey stands in stark contrast to the archetype of the tortured athlete, often portrayed in films like “Black Swan” or plagued by severe injuries like Lindsey Vonn’s recent comeback attempt. Rather than endure pain, Liu, Glenn, and Levito embody the belief that joy and self-acceptance can coexist with the pursuit of excellence. Their camaraderie and joy on the ice have made them crowd favorites.
Both Liu and Glenn have taken breaks from competitive skating, returning on their own terms. Liu, who began skating at age 5 and became the youngest U.S. national champion at 13, shocked many by retiring at 16 after a sixth-place finish at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. She expressed a desire to experience a normal teenage life, which included reconnecting with her family, hiking significant landmarks, and embarking on adventures with friends. Her return to the sport was marked by her insistence on a customized training approach, emphasizing personal autonomy in a demanding environment.
Glenn’s career has been equally complex; starting at a young age, she faced immense pressure that led to an eating disorder and depression. After seeking help and stepping back from the competitive scene, she found solace in her mental health journey and publicly embraced her identity as the first openly queer female U.S. Olympian. This empowerment was mirrored when she returned to social media recently, sharing her triumphs and resilience against adversity.
What sets this trio apart is their bold declaration that they are human beings first, rejecting the notion that athletic pursuits must come with self-sacrifice. Their performances are expressions of personal artistry and individuality rather than merely technical prowess. Glenn encapsulated this sentiment during a challenging routine, prioritizing mental well-being over performance perfection.
As someone who relates to Glenn’s perfectionist struggles, there’s hope and inspiration to be found in their stories. Each member of this figure-skating team is not just focused on medals but has also committed to redefining success in their lives, blending passion with a positive outlook. In doing so, they represent a refreshing shift in competitive sports, reminding us that winning is not solely determined by accolades but also by self-acceptance and community.