Key Highlights
- Amber Glenn will be the oldest figure skater to compete in singles skating at the Winter Games.
- Glenn overcame depression and an eating disorder in her early career.
- She came out as bisexual and pansexual, becoming the first openly queer woman to represent U.S. figure skating.
- Glenn successfully landed a triple Axel for the first time in competition at age 26.
The Unlikely Champion: Amber Glenn’s Journey to the Olympics
In February 2026, the spotlight is on Amber Glenn as she steps onto Olympic ice. But her path to this moment has been anything but typical.
At just 15 years old, Glenn faced a personal low point. Struggling with depression and an eating disorder, she stepped away from figure skating, uncertain if she’d ever return.
Six days at an in-patient treatment facility marked the beginning of her recovery journey. After emerging, she competed for the first time as a senior international skater and didn’t return to competition for almost a year.
The Road Back
Glenn’s comeback was slow but steady. Her 2016–17 season culminated in an eighth-place finish at nationals, her best result since winning the junior title in 2014. The following year, she faced a different challenge off the ice when a positive COVID-19 test ended her Olympic hopes.
Despite these setbacks, Glenn took a significant step forward by coming out publicly as bisexual and pansexual. “I wrestled with it for a bit,” she said. “But once I accepted that, I started finding my unique shape on the ice.”
A Triple Leap of Faith
Glenn’s journey culminated in 2024 when she landed her first triple Axel at the Grand Prix final and won her third straight national title. Her success has made her a trailblazer for both figure skating and the queer community.
“Figure skating is unique; we have more acceptance in the queer space,” Glenn said. “I’m creating the community for people to be seen, to be themselves.”
At 26 years old, Glenn will become the oldest single skater at the Winter Games. Her story is a testament to resilience and self-acceptance.
The Legacy
“It took completely stripping down just to survive every day,” Glenn reflected. “But I learned that being myself was key.” Her journey from a personal low point to Olympic champion reflects not only her talent but also her courage in advocating for mental health and self-acceptance.
Glenn’s path is a powerful reminder of the importance of support, resilience, and authenticity. As she steps onto the ice once again, her story inspires us all.
