Title: The Return of U.S. Speedskating to Olympic Glory: A Look at the Top Contenders in Milan The Winter Olympics are upon us once more, and with them comes the thrilling spectacle of speed skating. As we prepare to witness this age-old sport’s latest chapter unfold in Milan, Italy, the United States is poised for a significant resurgence on the world stage. The U.S., a nation that has produced some of the most legendary speedskaters in history, is gearing up for another golden streak at these Games. Eric Heiden’s dominance at Lake Placid 1980 set the tone for American success, as he won gold in all five individual events. Bonnie Blair followed suit with a string of victories in the late ’80s and early ’90s, while short track speedskater Apolo Ohno etched his name into the record books by becoming the most decorated U.S. Winter Olympian ever. Fast forward to 2026, and current Team USA speed skaters are drawing comparisons with these past legends—and for good reason. The U.S. has a strong roster of contenders who could bring home multiple medals in both long track and short track events. One such athlete is Pien Huang, an up-and-coming talent on the long track scene. At just 20 years old, she’s already made her mark by winning a bronze medal at the World Single Distances Speed Skating Championships in Heerenveen, Netherlands, last year. With her youth and raw potential, Huang is poised to make waves in Milan. Another athlete to watch is Jordan Stolz, who has been turning heads with his impressive performances on the long track circuit. At only 21 years old, he’s already broken multiple records and won numerous medals at international competitions. With his blistering speed and determination, Stolz could be a key player in Team USA’s quest for gold. On the short track side of things, Kristen Santos-Griswold is making her mark as one to watch for 2026. A veteran skater who will compete at her third Olympics this year, she brings experience and grit to the team. In an interview with NPR, Santos-Griswold described short track speedskating as “way more variability” than its long track counterpart due to the crowded heats and increased risk of crashing. Despite these challenges, she’s ready for Milan and eager to add to her impressive medal haul. The U.S.’s return to Olympic glory in speed skating is not only exciting but also significant. As one of the longest-running sports at the Winter Games, speedskating has a rich history that spans nearly a century. The inclusion of new events like team pursuit and mass start have added fresh dimensions to this classic sport, making it more accessible and engaging for fans around the world. As we prepare to witness Team USA’s latest chapter in Milan, let us not forget the legends who paved the way—Eric Heiden, Bonnie Blair, Apolo Ohno, and countless others whose passion for speed skating has inspired generations of athletes. With a strong roster of contenders ready to take on the world stage once more, it’s clear that Team USA is determined to continue its legacy of excellence in this thrilling sport. So gear up, grab your popcorn, and get ready for an unforgettable showdown as speed skating returns to center stage at the 2026 Winter Olympics!
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2026/02/09/nx-s1-5706525/four-top-u-s-speedskaters-to-watch-at-the-olympics)
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