Teams Elite World Gold a ‘Dream Come True’
Team USA delivered a historic milestone in U.S. Figure Skating history when it earned the country’s first-ever World gold medal in synchronized skating. Their monumental victory, coupled with the bronze medal secured by the Skyliners Junior team, has significantly elevated the U.S. to the top tier of synchronized skating worldwide.
It was a gutsy and golden performance at the 2025 ISU World Junior Synchronized Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden, where Teams Elite clinched the first-ever World title for the United States. The team from Northbrook, Illinois, entered the free program in third place but rallied magnificently to music from the film Black Swan, finishing with a total of 205.28 points.
Head coach Danielle Ostrower expressed her overwhelming emotions upon realizing the win. “My throat closed up, and I just burst into tears. In that instant, the team knew and I did not have to say anything.” The elation reverberated throughout the arena, making for a memorable and historic celebration.
Skater Emma Chung reflected, “It is a dream come true. We worked so hard for this opportunity and could not be more proud.” Teams Elite stood alongside the Skyliners, who secured bronze with a score of 201.27, highlighting their prowess and resilience as a team that has been podium favorites since 2018.
Josh Babb, coach of Skyliners Junior, emphasized the team’s watershed season, saying, “It was incredible to see their determination carry them to another world medal.” Teammate Caitlin Chae echoed this commitment, remarking, “Medaling showcases all our hard work and dedication.”
A hero’s welcome awaited Teams Elite upon returning to Illinois, exemplified by a water salute from the Chicago Fire Department. Ostrower declared, “In that moment, it really hit us—we had made history.” With unprecedented recognition, the U.S. is emerging as a dominant force in synchronized skating.
“This win is more than just a title—it’s a statement,” Ostrower declared. “U.S. synchro has been gaining strength and is now cementing its place in global conversations.” This triumph had long-lasting significance and set the stage for an exciting future in the discipline.
Looking onward, Ostrower noted, “Winning is incredible, but staying at the top requires an even greater commitment and focus.” The bright future of U.S. synchronized skating lies in unwavering dedication and the ethos that history can indeed be rewritten as they continue to push boundaries in the sport.
