Milan, Italy — The excitement surrounding the women’s figure skating competition is palpable as Team USA’s trio of skaters, dubbed the “Blade Angels,” prepares to showcase their talents on the Olympic stage. Comprised of Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito, the team is poised to make history, with each athlete a strong contender for an individual medal—the first for a U.S. woman since 2006.
As these talented skaters gear up for the competition, their camaraderie sets them apart from previous Olympic squads. The nickname “Blade Angels,” chosen by the skaters themselves, reflects a supportive and friendly atmosphere that contrasts with the more intense rivalries observed in earlier Olympic Games. Glenn, 26, acknowledges the shift, noting that younger skaters like Liu, 20, and Levito, 18, may not be familiar with any other dynamic. “Why is it so shocking that we’re being friendly?” Glenn asks, emphasizing the positive vibes that characterize their relationship.
Each member of the trio brings impressive credentials and accolades to the ice. Glenn is the reigning U.S. champion, while Liu earned the title of world champion and Levito was the 2024 world silver medalist. Their shared goal is not just personal glory but to elevate one another as they face the pressures of competition. “We are competing to perform our programs to the best of our ability,” Glenn stated. “Whatever the judges decide, that’s out of our hands. Our happiness is what matters most.”
Off the ice, Glenn, who is an outspoken advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights, has fostered a culture of acceptance among her younger teammates. Her openness about her struggles with anxiety and an eating disorder has inspired many in and out of the sport. Despite facing a significant mental health crisis, she returned to competition with renewed passion, highlighted by her stunning “Like a Prayer” program that earned record scores at the U.S. championships.
Liu, who famously became the youngest skater to land a triple Axel internationally at just 12, took a hiatus from the sport after her Olympic debut in 2022. After a fulfilling time away, she made a triumphant return, winning the 2025 World Championships. “Quitting was one of my best decisions,” Liu remarked, adding that her time off allowed her to rediscover her love for figure skating.
Levito, the youngest of the group, impressed audiences with her grace and charming personality, evident in her lighthearted social media presence. After recovering from a foot injury that interrupted her training, Levito expressed renewed gratitude for every opportunity to compete, viewing challenges as growth experiences rather than setbacks. “It just made me more grateful for every opportunity I have to skate,” she affirmed.
While the “Blade Angels” are raising the bar for Team USA, they will face stiff competition—most notably from Japan. Kaori Sakamoto, a seasoned competitor and three-time world champion, is among the standouts from the rival nation and aims to close her Olympic career with a medal. Sakamoto’s esteemed experience and leadership are invaluable not only to her but also to her young teammates, Mone Chiba and Ami Nakai, both contenders in their own right.
As the competition nears, the Olympic ice is set for a thrilling showdown. Experience, skill, and the undeniable spirit of teamwork will coalesce as the “Blade Angels” take to the rink, embodying both individual excellence and the support that can only be found through friendship.