2026 Winter Olympics: Women’s Single Skating Free Skating – A Night of Drama and Grace
The 2026 Milan Cortina Games continue to deliver unforgettable moments, and the Women’s Single Skating event is proving to be one of the most captivating competitions of the Games. Following a compelling short program, all eyes are now on the free skate, where skaters will battle for the coveted Olympic gold.
Short Program Recap: Liu and Sakamoto Lead the Charge
The women’s short program was a showcase of skill and artistry, with American Alysa Liu and Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto emerging as early frontrunners. Liu, the reigning world champion, delivered a stunning performance to Laufey’s “Promise,” earning a season’s best score of 76.59 and captivating the audience, including celebrity spectators Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart. Sakamoto wasn’t far behind, securing second place with a score of 77.23, skating to the beautiful tune of “Time To Say Goodbye” by Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli.
However, the night wasn’t without its disappointments. American skater Amber Glenn faced a setback after an invalid element in her routine, dropping her to 12th place despite a strong start with a triple axel. The emotional toll was evident as she left the ice in tears, a reminder of the immense pressure and precision required in this sport.
The Top Five Entering the Free Skate
Here’s a look at the top five skaters heading into the free skate, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown:
- Ami Nakai (78.71)
- Kaori Sakamoto (77.23)
- Alysa Liu (76.59)
- Mona Chiba (74.00)
- Isabeau Levito (70.84)
While these skaters hold the top positions, the unpredictable nature of figure skating means anything can happen in the free skate. As seen in the men’s event, a single mistake can dramatically alter the standings.
Beyond the Ice: Hockey Playoffs and Unexpected Entertainment
The excitement extends beyond the figure skating rink. In men’s hockey qualification, Czech Republic and Sweden have advanced to the quarterfinals, setting up clashes against Canada and the U.S., respectively. Sweden dominated Latvia 3-1, showcasing their NHL talent and preparing for a tough match against Team USA.
And in a moment of unexpected entertainment, Snoop Dogg brought his signature flair to the Milano Ice Skating Arena, dancing to his hit song “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and interacting with fans, including a surprising appearance alongside Martha Stewart. The atmosphere was electric, adding a unique touch to the Olympic experience.
What to Expect in the Free Skate
The Women’s Single Skating Free Skate promises to be a captivating event. Alysa Liu will be looking to solidify her position at the top, while Kaori Sakamoto will aim to overtake her for the gold. Amber Glenn will need a flawless performance to climb back into medal contention. With the stakes high and the world watching, the free skate is sure to deliver drama, artistry, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss the action on Thursday!
Stay tuned for updates and results as the 2026 Winter Olympics continue to unfold. You can find more information about the event on the official Olympic website.
