MILAN — It wasn’t all great for Team USA figure skating to win gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
U.S. skaters had their skates messed up after the medal ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 8, and needed to get them fixed, a person with knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports.
The person spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation.
The issue was a result of the medal podium, as it was not covered in carpet or a similar soft surface, the person said, leading to scratches and potential damages to the skates.
Typically, skaters put on skate guards whenever they are not on the ice to prevent damage. All the medalists came onto the ice for the medal ceremony, but there were not skate guards for them to put on when they stepped on the podium, leaving them without a chance to protect the blades.
