American figure skater Amber Glenn is making headlines and history in the world of competitive sports, and not just for her incredible performances on the ice. As a three-time consecutive U.S. Figure Skating Champion and a member of the U.S. Olympic team headed to the 2026 Winter Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy, Glenn has become one of the most exciting athletes in the sport today.
This past January, Glenn captured her third straight U.S. National title, a feat last accomplished by American legend Michelle Kwan over two decades ago. At the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, she delivered brilliant short- and free-skate performances, including a new record in the women’s short program, to secure yet another victory against fierce competitors like Alysa Liu and Isabeau Levito.
Glenn’s success this season builds on an already remarkable résumé. In addition to her national titles, she has medaled at numerous ISU Grand Prix events and won the 2025 Grand Prix Final, where she recorded one of the highest scores ever by an American woman. She’s also known for landing technically demanding elements like the triple Axel, a jump only a handful of U.S. women have landed in competition.
But what truly sets Glenn apart isn’t only her athletic prowess, it’s her authenticity and openness about her identity. Glenn publicly came out as bisexual and pansexual in 2019, a decision she says brought a powerful sense of freedom and confidence both on and off the ice. For many young athletes watching her compete, seeing Glenn live and thrive as her true self has been deeply meaningful.
Her presence at the 2026 Winter Olympics marks a historic moment: Glenn will be the first openly queer woman to represent the United States in women’s Olympic figure skating. This milestone reflects not only her individual achievements but also a broader shift in sports culture toward acceptance and visibility for LGBTQ+ athletes.
Glenn herself has spoken about how embracing her identity has changed her skating and her life. Rather than feeling constrained by stereotypes, she says skating as her authentic self, proudly recognized with pride flags in the audience, has helped her perform with more joy and confidence. In an interview, she described feeling moved by the support: seeing fans wave rainbow flags and cheer louder than ever made some of her performances among the most emotional of her career.
Her commitment to authenticity also extends off the ice. Glenn uses her platform to speak openly about mental health, encouraging others to seek help and reminding young athletes that struggles are a shared part of the human experience. She continues to push for visibility and inclusion, inspiring fellow skaters and fans alike.
As the Olympic Games approach, all eyes will be on Amber Glenn, not just as a top U.S. contender for a medal, but as a role model for resilience, courage and pride. Whether you’re a figure skating fan or just learning her name for the first time, Glenn’s journey is one of talent matched by tenacity and identity celebrated as strength.
