Olympics: Ilia Malinin Leads Team USA With Five-Medal Day as Gold Hunt Continues

Team USA had a strong showing at the Winter Olympics on Tuesday, bringing home five medals across multiple events as several American athletes delivered headline-making performances.

Figure skating standout Ilia Malinin thrilled fans as he jumped and flipped his way into first place in the short program. Known as the “Quad God,” Malinin reinforced his status as the gold medal favorite as he continues his pursuit of a second Olympic gold. Malinin said his focus remains on enjoying his time on the ice as competition continues.

There was disappointment for another Team USA star, Mikaela Shiffrin, who finished off the podium in her first race of the Games in the team combined event. Shiffrin said she plans to study the course and adjust her strategy moving forward.

The U.S. did celebrate success on the podium, with Paula Moltzan and Jackie Wiles earning a bronze medal. Moltzan described the Olympic podium moment as surreal, calling it a milestone in her career.

In cross-country skiing, Ben Ogden made history by becoming just the second American man to ever win an Olympic medal in the event. His silver ended a nearly 50-year medal drought for U.S. men and was one of three silver medals earned by Team USA on the day.

Another silver medal came in mixed doubles curling, where Korey Dropkin and Corey Thiesse reached the podium after an emotional week of competition.

The day also included a surprising off-competition moment, as Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid made a personal confession during a live interview following his bronze medal finish.

As the Games continue in Italy, Team USA’s medal momentum and standout performances are keeping fans focused on what could be a memorable Olympic run.

Credit: NBC News Channel
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