The 2026 Winter Olympics USA Highlights — the Milano‑Cortina Olympic Games wrapped up on February 22 in Verona, Italy, with dramatic moments and strong performances by American athletes. Team USA finished with a record medal total for the nation, led by historic golds and standout moments in ice hockey, skiing and more.
The final day featured one of the most thrilling games of the Winter Games. The U.S. men’s ice hockey team beat rival Canada 2‑1 in overtime to win Olympic gold. Jack Hughes scored the winning goal 1 minute and 41 seconds into extra time. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck made 41 saves to keep the U.S. in the game. This was the team’s first Olympic hockey gold since the iconic “Miracle on Ice” win in 1980.
This win pushed the United States to 12 gold medals at the 2026 Winter Games, the most gold medals ever won by the team at a single Winter Olympics. Team USA finished second in total medals behind Norway.
American athletes earned medals across a range of sports, highlighting depth and strength. In freestyle skiing, Eileen Gu defended her Olympic halfpipe title on the last day. She delivered a near‑perfect run that earned gold and extended her reputation as one of the sport’s most decorated athletes.
Sweden’s Ebba Andersson won gold in women’s 50 km cross‑country skiing, and American Jessie Diggins finished fifth in her final Olympic race.
Before the final day, U.S. skiers and winter sports competitors delivered memorable performances. Speed skater Jordan Stolz dominated in long‑track events, adding multiple golds to his medal haul. Bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor made history by winning the monobob gold at age 41. Freeskiers like Alex Ferreira also took top honors.
Figure skating brought success for the United States too. Alysa Liu won gold in women’s singles, ending a long drought for American women in the event and showing skill and grace under pressure.
The U.S. women’s hockey team also had a big moment earlier in the Games. They beat Canada 2‑1 in overtime to win gold, their first Olympic title since 2018.
Team USA’s performance showed growth and depth across winter sports. Speed skating, alpine skiing, freeskiing and aerials all contributed gold medals. The record medal total reflects years of training and investment in winter sport programs.
The Olympics concluded with a closing ceremony that celebrated athletes from around the world. As the flag was lowered and the Olympic flame went out, the Games left many highlights to remember, with American stars playing key roles in memorable races and matches.
Overall, the 2026 Winter Olympics USA Highlights show the strength of the American team in competitive winter sports. From hockey gold after a long wait to individual victories in skiing and skating, Team USA reached new heights in Milano‑Cortina
