Ilia Malinin Wins Olympic Gold in Team Event, Now Aims for Individual Title

American skater Ilia Malinin has won a gold medal in the team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. He is now also a strong favorite to win the gold medal in the men's individual figure skating competition. Malinin is known for his amazing jumps, including the quadruple jump.
By Newsroom | Figure Skating, Olympics |

The 2026 Winter Olympics figure skating competition is witnessing a remarkable performance from American skater Ilia Malinin. After securing a gold medal in the team event, Malinin is now a leading contender for the men's individual gold, demonstrating exceptional technical skill and composure on the ice. The stakes are high as Malinin navigates the pressure of his first Olympics, aiming to add another gold medal to his burgeoning career. His performances have already captured attention, with notable figures like Novak Djokovic and Alex Ovechkin expressing admiration.

10 Photos of Ilia Malinin: The 2026 Winter Olympics Men Figure Skating Wonder Behind the Quad Jump Performance Frenzy - 1

Dominance in the Team Event

Team USA, including Ilia Malinin, has clinched the gold medal in the figure skating team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This victory was a collective effort, with Malinin's contributions proving decisive.

10 Photos of Ilia Malinin: The 2026 Winter Olympics Men Figure Skating Wonder Behind the Quad Jump Performance Frenzy - 2

  • Malinin delivered a winning score of 200.03 points in the men's free skate segment of the team event, a performance that secured the gold medal for the United States.

  • This win placed Team USA atop the medal table with 69 points, narrowly ahead of Japan (68 points) and Italy (60 points).

  • Other members of the gold medal-winning team included Alysa Liu, Amber Glenn, Madison Chock, Evan Bates, Ellie Kam, and Danny O'Shea.

  • Amber Glenn also played a crucial role, earning eight team points with a third-place finish in the women's free skate.

Leading the Individual Competition

Following the team event triumph, Malinin has carried his momentum into the men's individual competition, positioning himself as a strong favorite.

Read More: Shaidorov Wins Gold, Malinin Falls in Figure Skating Surprise

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  • Malinin holds the lead after a near-perfect short program, setting a substantial technical advantage over his competitors.

  • His short program performance has placed significant pressure on rivals such as Kagiyama, who faces a considerable deficit to overcome in the longer free skate.

Mastery of the Quad Jump

A key factor in Malinin's success is his extraordinary technical ability, particularly his mastery of the quadruple jump.

10 Photos of Ilia Malinin: The 2026 Winter Olympics Men Figure Skating Wonder Behind the Quad Jump Performance Frenzy - 4

  • He is recognized for his ability to land the quadruple Axel, a jump with 4.5 revolutions, a feat no other skater has accomplished in competition.

  • During the team event free skate, Malinin successfully executed five other quad jumps, contributing to a high score of 200.03.

  • The sheer difficulty of his planned technical elements is seen as a significant advantage, capable of skyrocketing his scores.

Despite his young age and first Olympic appearance, Malinin has exhibited remarkable composure.

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  • Following the team gold medal and his strong short program, Malinin appeared to shake off the pressure, even playfully interacting with cameras.

  • He has suggested that his primary competition is often himself, indicating a focus on personal bests and pushing his own limits.

  • Malinin has noted that he opted out of attempting the quadruple Axel during certain performances, suggesting strategic choices within his programs.

Notable Achievements and Recognition

Malinin's performances have not only garnered Olympic medals but also significant recognition and admiration.

  • His Olympic debut has been met with awe, even from prominent figures like tennis star Novak Djokovic.

  • He received a unique gesture from hockey star Alex Ovechkin, who gifted him a set of his signature yellow skate laces for the Olympics.

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Read More: Ilia Malinin Finishes Eighth in Olympics After Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Did Ilia Malinin win a gold medal?
Yes, Ilia Malinin won a gold medal with Team USA in the figure skating team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. He is also a top contender for the individual gold medal.
Q: What makes Ilia Malinin a strong skater?
Malinin is very good at difficult jumps, especially the quadruple jump. He is the only skater to land a quadruple Axel in a competition.
Q: How did Malinin do in the team event?
He got a high score in the men's free skate, which helped Team USA win the gold medal.
Q: Is this Malinin's first Olympics?
Yes, this is Ilia Malinin's first time competing in the Winter Olympics. He has shown he can handle the pressure well.