Jordan Stolz leaves Milan Olympics with three medals but still wanting more after mass start finish

Jordan Stolz delivered one of the most impressive performances of the Milan Winter Olympics, capturing multiple medals and solidifying his place among the sport’s brightest young stars. But despite the success, the American speedskater is leaving Italy with a lingering sense of unfinished business.

Stolz entered the mass start race already holding two gold medals and a silver, but the strategic nature of the event proved challenging. Early in the race, Jorrit Bergsma of the Netherlands and Denmark’s Viktor Hald Thorup broke away from the pack. While the peloton hesitated, the duo steadily built a commanding lead.

Like many in the field, Stolz waited — knowing that chasing too early could leave him without enough energy for the final sprint. But the delay proved costly. The leaders stretched their advantage to an insurmountable margin, and Stolz was left battling for bronze. He was edged out in the closing meters by Italy’s Andrea Giovannini, finishing fourth by just .09 seconds.

Stolz later described the race as frustrating, saying the group’s hesitation prevented any meaningful chase. He also acknowledged the event remains outside his comfort zone, noting he had little recent experience in mass start competition before this season.

Still, his Olympic showing was remarkable. With three medals and a dominant presence throughout the Games, Stolz leaves Milan proud of what he accomplished — even as he reflects on what might have been in that final race.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.