Team USA sits in 1st after the first three qualifying segments of the Olympic figure skating team event concluded Friday morning.
Next up, the men's short program, and with two-time world champion Ilia Malinin on the roster, it seems likely that the U.S. will remain in that top spot heading into the final.
Malinin, who has been undefeated since 2023, is largely seen as unbeatable heading into these Games. His scores are often so far ahead of his nearest competitors that he is in many ways competing in a field of one. Given his dominance over the past three seasons, it's almost hard to remember this is Malinin's first Olympic outing, and eyes will be on the phenom as he helps Team USA in the campaign for Olympic gold.
Later in the day, the first final of the team event takes place with the free dance. Entries for that event have not yet been announced.
How the figure skating team event works
The team event requires considerable strategy, and Team USA's path to gold is far from given. Each entrant earns points: 10 points go to 1st place, 9 points to 2nd place, and so on. National teams qualified over the previous season and must have at least three of the four disciplines qualified in the individual event.
Teams may swap out skaters in two disciplines after the short programs and rhythm dance segments. The U.S. contingent has already announced they will include both Liu and Glenn in the event, with Liu competing the short program and Glenn skating in the free skate. That leaves only one other possible substitution, and with the individual ice dance and men’s events starting shortly after the conclusion of the team event, some athletes may be looking to preserve their energy.
With nothing certain, figure skating fans can expect high drama right from the start — where every placement point can swing medal prospects in this format that rewards national depth and consistency as much as individual brilliance.
Current team standings
1. USA - 25
2. Japan - 23
3. Italy - 22
4. Georgia - 20
5. Canada - 19
6. France - 17
7. Korea - 11
8. Great Britain - 11
9. China - 10
10. Poland - 6