Olympic Gold Contender Attributes Success to Coming Out
Amber Glenn made history at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships this month. After a stunning performance, she scored 83.05, setting a record for the women’s short program. This achievement marked her third consecutive U.S. championship win, a feat not accomplished by a woman in over two decades. With this victory, Glenn secured her position on the Olympic team, creating the potential for her to be the first U.S. woman to win a medal in singles since 2006 at the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Personal Growth and Coming Out
Glenn’s journey reflects more than just athletic prowess; it symbolizes personal growth. In 2019, she publicly came out as bisexual and pansexual, a decision she attributes significantly to her recent successes. Following her announcement, Glenn experienced a surge in confidence, stating, “It was something that did set me free.” This openness, while daunting, allowed her to embrace her identity rather than conform to societal expectations.
Historic Firsts in Figure Skating
As the first openly LGBTQ woman to compete in figure skating at the Olympics, Glenn’s impact extends beyond the rink. Outsports reported her achievements as a breakthrough for visibility within the sport. Initially, Glenn was uncertain about the reaction she would receive, particularly in countries with varying cultural views on LGBTQ individuals. However, she found overwhelming support, including Pride flags in audiences during competitions.
- Birthplace: Plano, Texas
- First Olympic Appearance: Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, 2026
- Achievements:
- Record score at U.S. Championships: 83.05
- First U.S. woman in 21 years to win three consecutive U.S. Championships
- Recent accomplishments include winning gold at the World Team Trophy in 2022
Overcoming Challenges
Glenn’s path was not without obstacles. She faced multiple concussions and inconsistencies that hindered her training. Her resilience was evident as she moved to Colorado for better training opportunities and changed coaches. Under the guidance of coach Damon Allen, she made significant strides, spearheaded by the support of a mental coach focusing on psychological resilience.
After several setbacks, including a missed opportunity at the 2021 U.S. Championships, Glenn rebounded spectacularly. By 2024, her hard work culminated in her first U.S. national title, drawing parallels to Michelle Kwan’s historic performances. She later became the first U.S. woman in 14 years to win the Grand Prix Final, showcasing her resilience and dedication.
Finding Strength in Authenticity
For Glenn, coming out and embracing her true self has been pivotal in her skating career. She recognized that fitting into a preconceived mold was unnecessary for her success. “I’m not going to be at the top anyways, so I might as well do it as myself,” she remarked, illustrating her commitment to authenticity.
As she prepares for the Winter Olympics, Glenn aims not only to compete but also to advocate for LGBTQ visibility and mental health awareness in sports. Her story inspires many, proving that being true to oneself can lead to exceptional achievements.
