Kristi Yamaguchi Mentors Next Gen at 2026 Winter Olympics

As the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics reach their midpoint, legendary figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi has emerged as a central figure in the Games’ narrative, serving as both a mentor to the new generation and a vocal advocate for the mental well-being of modern athletes.

The 1992 Olympic Gold Medallist has been a constant presence in Milan this week, frequently appearing alongside fellow champion Brian Boitano to provide expert analysis and support for the current American roster. On 15 February 2026, Yamaguchi and Boitano shared their insights on the “Blade Angels”—the trio of Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito—praising their unique styles and technical progression. Yamaguchi specifically highlighted Alysa Liu’s ability to maintain a sense of joy on the ice, noting that she and Boitano “never feel nervous” watching Liu perform because of her infectious confidence.

The “OGM” Chain and Mentorship

Recent reports have pulled back the curtain on the “OGM chain,” a highly exclusive and secret text group consisting of U.S. Olympic Gold Medallists in figure skating. Yamaguchi is a key member of this digital support system, which includes icons like Scott Hamilton, Dorothy Hamill, and Nathan Chen. The group serves as a private sanctuary for champions to offer real-time encouragement to active competitors. Earlier this week, the chain was active in supporting Ilia Malinin ahead of his final skate, though some commentators joked that a message from Yamaguchi and Boitano might have “jinxed” the young star after a challenging performance.

Reflections on the “Kiss-and-Cry”

As the 2026 Games place a renewed focus on athlete mental health, Yamaguchi’s own Olympic journey has been revisited by major outlets like The Toronto Star and The Score. Analysts have used Yamaguchi’s 1992 experience in Albertville to debate the “voyeuristic” nature of the Kiss-and-Cry area. Yamaguchi famously recalled the intense pressure of waiting for her scores after a performance she felt was gold-calibre, sparking a broader conversation in Milan about whether the high-definition scrutiny of athletes’ raw emotional reactions is worth the psychological toll.

Philanthropy and Legacy

Beyond the Olympic rink, Yamaguchi continues to expand her philanthropic footprint. On 13 February 2026, her non-profit organization, the Always Dream Foundation, announced a new initiative supporting “keiki” (children) at five different island schools in Hawaii. The program focuses on early childhood literacy, ensuring that the Olympic spotlight translates into tangible benefits for underserved communities.

Yamaguchi’s enduring influence is also being celebrated in the fashion world. Harper’s Bazaar recently named her 1992 gold-medal ensemble as one of the 45 most incredible figure skating costumes in history, a testament to her lasting impact on the sport’s aesthetic and cultural legacy.