Sat Feb 07 21:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Flashback on Ice: Where Are Team USA’s Figure Skating Legends Now?

The Story:

As Team USA’s figure skaters prepare to compete at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, a look back at the careers and current lives of figure skating legends like Tonya Harding, Nancy Kerrigan, and Kristi Yamaguchi reveals diverse paths. From Olympic glory to reality TV, commentary gigs, and personal reinvention, these athletes have navigated life after the spotlight with varying degrees of success and public perception. The article explores how these former stars have continued to make an impact on and off the ice.

Key Points:

  • Alysa Liu is making a comeback after initially retiring at age 16, expressing no regrets about her time away from the sport.
  • Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir are currently appearing on season four of The Traitors, showcasing their friendship and strategic bond, which began at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.
  • Scott Hamilton, a gold medalist in 1984, has battled cancer and a brain tumor and will return as a commentator for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
  • Brian Boitano, a 1988 gold medalist, came out as gay during the 2014 Sochi Olympics and will co-host a video podcast for the 2026 Winter Games.
  • Kristi Yamaguchi, the 1992 Olympic gold medalist, runs the Always Dream Foundation and has ventured into television, authorship, and fitness.
  • Nancy Kerrigan, after her infamous 1994 ordeal, skated professionally, became a speaker, authored a book, and spoke about her miscarriages on Dancing With the Stars.
  • Tonya Harding’s public image has softened since the biopic I, Tonya; she participated in Dancing With the Stars and Worst Cooks in America.
  • Michelle Kwan, a nine-time U.S. champion, has been involved in political campaigns and welcomed two daughters.
  • Tara Lipinski is known for her commentary alongside Johnny Weir and her gold medal at the 1998 Nagano Olympics.
  • Sarah Hughes, a gold medalist in 2002, is now a practicing attorney.
  • Sasha Cohen, a silver medalist in 2006, has been open about the pressures faced by teenage athletes.
  • Evan Lysacek, a gold medalist in 2010, works in commercial real estate.
  • Meryl Davis and Charlie White won the United States’ first-ever gold medal in ice dancing in Sochi.
  • Adam Rippon is balancing work in entertainment and human rights activism.
  • Gracie Gold has spoken candidly about her struggles with mental health.
  • Ashley Wagner has become a middle school science teacher.

Key Takeaways:

  • Olympic athletes often transition into diverse careers and roles after their competitive skating careers end.
  • The public perception of athletes, especially those involved in controversies, can evolve over time.
  • Many former Olympians use their platform to advocate for causes they believe in.
  • Mental health awareness among athletes has increased, with many sharing their personal struggles.
  • Figure skating commentary remains a popular avenue for former skaters.

Impact Analysis:

This retrospective on figure skating legends, coinciding with the 2026 Winter Olympics, serves to highlight the ongoing impact these athletes have on the sport and society. By showcasing their diverse paths after competition, the article inspires current athletes and fans to consider the possibilities beyond the ice rink. Furthermore, the article’s focus on mental health and personal reinvention underscores the importance of supporting athletes holistically. This helps foster a more empathetic and understanding view of the unique challenges and triumphs associated with a life in competitive sports.

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