Athletes to watch from Team USA at the Winter Olympics

Around 2,900 elite athletes from across the globe will gather in Italy for the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, competing in 116 events from February 6 to February 22. Team USA, with a historic tally of 330 Winter Olympic medals, is sending approximately 230 athletes to the Games. These athletes are not only aiming to add to their nation's medal count but also to inspire and represent their country on the world stage. Among the standout competitors are freestyle skiers Alex Ferreira and Alex Hall, figure skaters Alysa Liu and Amber Glenn, speedskaters Brittany Bowe and Erin Jackson, and ice hockey players Hilary Knight and Caroline Harvey. Each athlete brings a unique story and a wealth of experience to the Games, making them key figures to watch. Ferreira, a two-time medalist, and Hall, a gold medalist, are both making their third Olympic appearances. Liu, who retired at 16 and made a remarkable comeback, and Glenn, who is advocating for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights, are also notable. Bowe, a two-time bronze medalist, and Jackson, the first Black woman to win gold in an individual event, are leading Team USA as flagbearers. Their journeys and achievements highlight the dedication and perseverance required to reach the Olympic level.