Winter Olympics 2026: Isabeau Levito shimmies with Sophia Loren glam in Olympic debut
In the highly anticipated opening of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, USA figure skater Isabeau Levito made her brilliant Olympic debut on foreign ice, channeling the glamour of Italian cinema. At just 18 years old, Levito captivated the audience with her stunning performance to the timeless melodies of Oscar-winning actress and singer Sophia Loren.
Levito illuminated the Milano Ice Skating Arena dressed in a dramatic red gown, adorned with sparkles that echoed Loren’s iconic charm. As the arena pulses with energy, the USA skater executed her short program to ‘Almost In Your Arms’ and ‘Zou Bisou Bisou,’ drawing in the eyes and hearts of onlookers.
Reflecting on her experience, Levito expressed, “I loved every minute of the short program. It makes me feel so good because I get to embody this diva.” Her performance kept the spirited momentum throughout, landing impressive jumps including a triple flip-triple toe loop combination, earning a respectable score of 70.84 points that secured her a spot in the top 10 heading into the free skate.
Despite an under-rotation on a triple loop, Levito’s confidence shone through her spins, each receiving top marks from the judges. “I don’t feel nervous,” she stated exuberantly. “I’m just happy to be here.” In contrast to her teammates who competed in the team event, the women’s short program marked Levito’s Olympic debut, a moment steeped in personal significance.
Levito’s appreciation for her Italian heritage added depth to her performance, as her mother and aunt cheered proudly from the stands while her broader family celebrated from afar. As Levito performed, the echoes of familial support mingled with her artistic tribute to a beloved icon.
With bindings to her Italian roots and the grace of Loren propelling her, Isabeau Levito’s debut serves as a promising beacon for what’s to come in the competition, and a reminder of the intersection of sports and cultural homage in the world of professional figure skating.
