MILAN, Italy — American figure skater Andrew Torgashev has officially made his Olympic debut at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, delivering a standout performance in the men’s short program on 10 February 2026. The 24-year-old Florida native, who has overcome years of injury setbacks, currently sits near the top of the qualifying standings with a score of 88.94.
Torgashev’s journey to the Olympic ice is being hailed as a “triumph of persistence.” After missing nearly two full seasons due to injuries earlier in his career, he secured his spot on Team USA by winning back-to-back silver medals at the 2025 and 2026 U.S. National Championships. He joins a powerhouse American men’s roster that includes gold-medal favourite Ilia Malinin and Maxim Naumov.
Olympic Performance and Results
During today’s short program at the Mediolanum Forum, Torgashev executed a “lovely routine” that earned him high marks for artistry and technical precision. His score of 88.94 ensures his advancement to the free skate portion of the competition. Speaking to reporters after his skate, Torgashev noted he was “enjoying every minute” of his first Olympic experience.
Background and Heritage
Born on 29 May 2001, in Coral Springs, Florida, Torgashev is the son of elite Soviet-born skaters Ilona Melnichenko and Artem Torgashev. His parents served as his primary coaches until he was 16, training him at the Florida Panthers IceDen. He currently trains in Orange County, California, under a coaching team that has helped him refine his technical consistency following his return to the sport in 2023.
Career Highlights
- 2026 Winter Olympics: Made debut in Milan, scoring 88.94 in the short program.
- U.S. National Championships: Silver medalist in 2025 and 2026.
- 2024 Grand Prix de France: Bronze medalist.
- 2015 U.S. Junior Champion: Established himself as a top prospect early in his career.
The men’s singles competition continues this week, with Torgashev looking to maintain his momentum in the free skate as he represents the United States on the world’s biggest stage.