Skating Star's Decade-Long Battle for Olympic Dream

Amber Glenn is set to compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics, marking the culmination of a decade-long journey marked by significant personal battles. After reaching a crisis point over ten years ago, Glenn sought treatment for depression, anxiety, and an eating disorder, finding the strength to pursue her future.

Glenn's presence at the Games is historic, as she is the first openly queer woman to represent the U.S. in Olympic singles figure skating. At 26, she is also the oldest American women's singles skater since 1928. She actively uses her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness.

Her approach to figure skating has also evolved. Glenn has embraced her unique physique and technical style, challenging traditional molds. She utilizes sports psychology, including neurofeedback, to manage performance anxiety and focus her mental state, a crucial aspect of her preparation.

Despite missing the 2022 Olympics as an alternate, Glenn's determination led to subsequent victories, including Grand Prix events and the 2025 Grand Prix Final. She is the three-time reigning U.S. national champion, securing her spot in the upcoming Games. Glenn aims to medal in the women's singles, potentially breaking a 20-year drought for the U.S. She continues to manage her mental health challenges, viewing them not as limitations but as integral parts of her journey.

Glenn's story is one of profound vulnerability and resilience. She aims to show that perfection is not required to excel and that it is okay not to be okay. Her experiences have taught her invaluable lessons, and she hopes to mentor future generations of figure skaters, emphasizing self-acceptance and perseverance.