U.S. Secures Record 11th Gold Medal at 2026 Winter Olympics

The United States has achieved a historic milestone at the 2026 Winter Olympics, securing a record 11th gold medal. This remarkable feat was accomplished in the mixed team aerials event, a discipline where Team USA had previously struggled. The team’s latest victory underscores its growing prowess in winter sports.

Team USA’s Success in Mixed Team Aerials

In the mixed team aerials competition, teams consist of three athletes, including at least one woman. Each participant executes a jump, and the combined scores determine the winning team. The United States clinched its second consecutive gold medal in this event, surpassing its previous record set during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

Key Performances

Team USA faced challenges earlier in the Games, with all aerial skiers struggling during the singles competition, particularly in changing wind conditions. However, they adapted successfully for the team event. Chris Lillis, a gold medalist from the Beijing Games, delivered a stellar final jump. He executed a back double-full-full-full with precision, securing the championship title for his team.

• Total Gold Medals: 11
• Previous Record: 10 golds (2002 Winter Olympics)
• Team Composition: 3 athletes (1 woman)

During the qualifying rounds, Kaila Kuhn initiated the U.S. efforts with a back-full-full-full performance, scoring 106.89 and placing the team atop the leaderboard. Following her, Connor Curran executed a flawless back full-double full-full, dazzling judges with his landing.

Finals Round Strategy

The U.S. team advanced to the finals with a combined score of 351.23, considerable enough to outpace China, Australia, and Switzerland. However, the scores reset for the final round, compelling the team to perform again. This reset provided them with the opportunity to adjust their strategy based on the other teams’ performances.

Kuhn performed solidly in the finals, scoring 94.44, placing her second among female competitors. Curran followed, landing a back full-double full-full, bringing the U.S. to a commanding lead. With the U.S. at 208.16 points, ahead of China by nearly 24 points, attention turned to Lillis.

China faced difficulties with their last attempts, further opening the door for Team USA. Lillis needed to score at least 89 points to secure the gold. He surpassed expectations by earning 117.19 points, solidifying the U.S. victory. The Swiss team earned silver, while China took home the bronze.

This achievement not only highlights the depth and talent of the U.S. team but also signals a thrilling future for American winter sports. The success in mixed team aerials is a testament to resilience and strategy, marking a new chapter in Olympic history for Team USA.