Figure Skating: Bradie Tennell Looks to Steady Path to Milano 2026 in Season Opener in Japan
As U.S. figure skater Bradie Tennell begins her third Olympic season this week at the ISU Challenger Series Kinoshita Group Cup in Osaka, Japan, she embarks on a journey that she hopes will lead to a successful finale in a series of comebacks.
“It seems like in the past three or four years, it’s been one thing after another,” Tennell reflected about her tumultuous journey. “We had Covid, then I was injured during the Olympic season, and it’s been a constant struggle.”
This season marks a pivotal start, paving the way for her aspirations to compete in the Olympic Games at Milano Cortina 2026. The 26-year-old Tennell, who played an integral role in securing a team bronze medal at the 2018 Olympic Games, missed the Beijing 2022 competition due to a foot injury. A series of setbacks has marred her progress, including a devastating injury that prematurely ended her last season.
“I really feel like I’m in the best place — physically and mentally — that I’ve been in a very long time,” she emphasized before her nationals in 2025. Having found renewed motivation, she recognizes each moment on the ice as a precious opportunity.
Last season, Bradie faced stiff competition, finishing fifth at both Grand Prix assignments, including Skate America and the NHK Trophy, and represented herself admirably with a fourth-place finish at the U.S. Championships. However, she capped off her season triumphantly by winning a silver medal at the 2025 Four Continents Championships.
Regaining her form has not just been about physical recovery but involves a complete recalibration. “When a challenge presents itself, it’s motivating,” she remarked. “This feeling inside tells me I’m not done yet.”
Entering this season, Tennell encounters fierce competition for the U.S. spots available for the upcoming Olympics, facing off against reigning world champion Alysa Liu and others, yet her focus remains steadfastly on her own performances.
“I wake up in the morning and I’m excited to train,” she said. “It’s fulfilling to push myself and see the progress I can make.” With determination and a positive mindset, Bradie Tennell heads into the new season with aspirations and hopes high. The skating world will be watching closely as she pursues her Olympic dream once again.
