Amber Glenn leads after short program, on cusp of third straight national title at 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships
Amber Glenn’s prayers were answered Wednesday night in St. Louis, Missouri, as the two-time and reigning U.S. champion took the lead after an exhilarating women’s short program at the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Skating to Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” Glenn thrilled the crowd at the Enterprise Center, achieving a score of 83.05.
Executed with precision and artistry, her program included a stunning triple Axel, marking her as the only competitor to successfully perform the maneuver in the event. Following her performance, an ecstatic Glenn celebrated by unleashing a fist pump, her emotions overflowing. “I feel ecstatic,” Glenn remarked after her skate. “The score was huge. I was not expecting that.”
Glenn’s closest rival, reigning world and Grand Prix Final champion Alysa Liu, also delivered a captivating performance, earning a score of 81.11 to place second. Liu, known for her technical precision and artistry, exhibits the strength necessary to challenge Glenn, maintaining the excitement leading into the free skate segment.
Rounding out the top three was former U.S. champion Isabeau Levito with a solid score of 75.72. The level of competition displayed by Glenn, Liu, and Levito marked a dramatic and inspiring evening of performances.
The American team has three quota spots for the upcoming Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, with Team USA set to finalize their Olympic roster following the Champ’s completion on Sunday. This year’s championships play a crucial role in deciding who will represent the U.S. on the Olympic stage.
In addition to Glenn’s impressive leap, Sarah Everhardt (71.10) and Bradie Tennell (69.53) finished in fourth and fifth, respectively, showcasing the depth of talent within American figure skating.
As the anticipation builds for the free skate program, all eyes remain glued to the performance of Glenn as she inches closer to claiming her third consecutive national title.
Stay tuned for more updates and results from the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships!
