Amber Glenn Makes History as First Openly LGBTQ+ Women’s Champion at 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships

A New Era of Inclusivity and Triumph in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio – The 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships witnessed a groundbreaking moment in the sport’s history as Amber Glenn ascended to the pinnacle of women’s figure skating, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ skater to capture the national title. Glenn’s triumph in Columbus, Ohio, marks a watershed moment, symbolizing a new era of inclusivity and acceptance in the sport.

Glenn’s Path to Victory: Resilience and Determination

Amber Glenn, the 22-year-old skater from Plano, Texas, has consistently ranked among the top contenders in U.S. figure skating in recent years. With multiple podium finishes at nationals, including a third-place finish in 2023, Glenn was poised for greatness. However, the 2024 championships presented a unique opportunity to make history.

Glenn’s journey to victory was not without its challenges. After trailing Isabeau Levito, the reigning champion, in the short program, Glenn displayed resilience and determination in the free skate. Executing a triple axel early in her routine, she captivated the audience with her technical prowess and artistic expression. Despite minor errors later in the program, Glenn’s overall score of 210.46 secured her the gold medal.

A Historic Moment for LGBTQ+ Representation: Breaking Barriers

Glenn’s victory transcends the realm of sports. As the first openly LGBTQ+ skater to win the U.S. women’s title, she becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals who have long felt marginalized in the world of competitive figure skating. Her triumph sends a powerful message of inclusivity and acceptance, challenging stereotypes and paving the way for a more diverse and representative sport.

“Being the first openly queer women’s champion is incredible,” Glenn expressed after her victory. “When I came out originally, I was terrified and scared it would affect my scores or something, but I didn’t care. It was worth it to see, over the last couple of years, the amount of young people that feel more comfortable in their environments at the rink.”

Completing the Podium: Levito and Lee Claim Silver and Bronze

Josephine Lee, a 17-year-old skater from California, captured the silver medal with a total score of 204.13. Lee’s performance was characterized by her strong skating skills and expressive artistry, leaving a lasting impression on the judges and audience alike.

Isabeau Levito, the defending champion, had to settle for the bronze medal this year. Known for her dynamic jumps, Levito faced challenges in the free skate, suffering a couple of falls that ultimately cost her the chance to retain her title. Nevertheless, her resilience and determination were evident throughout the competition.

Mia Kalin Makes Quadruple Jump History: A New Generation Emerges

While Glenn’s victory headlined the women’s event, another historic moment occurred earlier in the program. Mia Kalin, a 15-year-old skater from California, became the first woman to cleanly land a quadruple jump at the U.S. Championships, showcasing the rising talent and skill level of the next generation of U.S. figure skaters.

Kalin’s quad toe loop was a remarkable feat, demonstrating the evolving landscape of the sport and the exceptional athleticism of the young skaters. Her performance serves as a testament to the bright future of U.S. figure skating.

Men’s Short Program: Ilia Malinin Dominates, Setting the Stage for the Free Skate

In the men’s short program, Ilia Malinin, the reigning champion, asserted his dominance once again. Known for his exceptional jumping ability, Malinin executed two quad jumps and earned a score of 108.57, putting him in a commanding position heading into the free skate.

Maxim Naumov and Jason Brown rounded out the top three in the men’s short program. Naumov, a 21-year-old skater from California, finished with a score of 89.72, while Brown, a 29-year-old veteran and former Olympian, scored 88.17. With the free skate still to come, the men’s competition promises thrilling performances and intense rivalries.

Ice Dance and Pairs Competitions Await: Anticipation Builds for More Exciting Moments

The 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships continue on Saturday with the ice dance and pairs competitions. With several talented teams vying for the titles, the upcoming events promise more captivating performances and compelling storylines. The ice dance competition features reigning champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates, while the pairs competition will see Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier aiming to defend their title.

The 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships have already delivered historic moments and unforgettable performances. As the ice dance and pairs competitions unfold, fans can expect more drama, artistry, and athleticism from the nation’s top figure skaters.