### U.S. Figure Skating Championships Set the Stage for Olympic Aspirations The 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships showcased remarkable performances, particularly from Amber Glenn and Alysa Liu, as they prepare for the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan. Glenn, a three-time champion, edged out reigning world champion Liu, while the pairs competition saw Alisha Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov defend their title amidst citizenship uncertainties for Efimova. The event not only highlighted individual talents but also set the stage for the U.S. team selection for the Olympics, with the announcement expected soon. ### Breakdown of Key Events and Performances 1. **Women's Singles Competition**: - Amber Glenn won her third consecutive U.S. title with a total score of **233.55 points**, outperforming Alysa Liu, who scored **228.91 points**. Isabeau Levito secured third place with **224.45 points** [https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2026/01/11/richmonds-liu-helps-anchor-one-of-the-u-s-s-strong-olympic-figure-skating-teams]. - Glenn's performance included a signature triple Axel, which contributed significantly to her victory [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/figure-skating-glenn-three-peats-us-figure-skating-championships-5850181]. 2. **Pairs Competition**: - Efimova and Mitrofanov defended their title with a score of **207.71 points**, despite facing challenges related to Efimova's pending U.S. citizenship [https://apnews.com/article/us-figure-skating-championships-olympics-milan-3172379faedb4d5264771666b44b674d]. - The duo's performance was marked by some errors, yet they managed to secure their position ahead of competitors Ellie Kam and Danny O'Shea [https://www.click2houston.com/sports/2026/01/10/amber-glenn-wins-third-straight-us-figure-skating-title-topping-alysa-liu-with-brilliant-free-skate]. 3. **Olympic Team Selection**: - The official announcement for the Olympic team is anticipated shortly, with the U.S. selectors expected to confirm the roster on Sunday [https://www.baltimoresun.com/2026/01/10/amber-glenn-us-figure-skating-championships]. - The American women's team is poised to make a strong showing, aiming for the first individual medal since Sasha Cohen's silver in 2006 [https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/01/11/richmonds-liu-helps-anchor-one-of-the-u-s-s-strong-olympic-figure-skating-teams]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Scores from the Women's Singles**: - Amber Glenn: **233.55 points** - Alysa Liu: **228.91 points** - Isabeau Levito: **224.45 points** [https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/olympics/2026/01/10/amber-glenn-us-figure-skating-championship-champion/88115461007]. - **Pairs Competition Scores**: - Efimova and Mitrofanov: **207.71 points** - Kam and O'Shea: **197.12 points** [https://www.goldenskate.com/efimova-and-mitrofanov-defend-u-s-pairs-title-in-st-louis]. ### Conclusion: A Promising Outlook for U.S. Figure Skating 1. **Amber Glenn's Dominance**: Glenn's victory solidifies her status as a leading contender for the Olympics, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. 2. **Alysa Liu's Resilience**: Liu's strong performance indicates her potential to secure a medal, aiming to break a long-standing drought for U.S. women in figure skating. 3. **Pairs Team's Uncertainty**: The situation surrounding Efimova's citizenship adds an element of unpredictability to the pairs team selection, which could impact their Olympic participation. The upcoming Olympic Games in Milan are shaping up to be a pivotal moment for U.S. figure skating, with both individual and pairs competitions promising thrilling performances and the potential for historic achievements [https://www.olympics.com/en/milano-cortina-2026/news/sublime-amber-glenn-rockets-to-third-straight-u-s-title-holding-off-world-champion-alysa-liu].