The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina delivered another day of high drama and historic performances on Day 13, with Team USA making significant moves in the overall olympics medal count. The day was headlined by a trio of American medalists across speedskating and figure skating, while a skiing legend returned to the top of the podium. The current gold medal count 2026 standings saw the United States tighten its grip on a top-three position following these crucial victories.
In a stunning turn of events at the speedskating oval, American prodigy Jordan Stolz, who had dominated earlier distances, was finally bested. Stolz, aiming for a clean sweep of golds, had to settle for silver in the men’s 1500m, finishing behind China’s Ning Zhongyan. The race marked a rare moment where something strange happened to Jordan Stolz — he lost. Despite the setback, the silver was Stolz’s third medal of these Games, a monumental achievement that cements his status as a future legend of the sport. His performance was a key contributor to the American haul in the medals olympics 2026 tally.
The ice provided more golden moments for the Stars and Stripes later in the day. In the women’s figure skating final, Alysa Liu delivered a flawless, career-defining performance to capture the Olympic gold medal. Liu, overcoming immense pressure, landed a technically demanding program with artistic grace, sending the American contingent into raptures and adding a crucial gold to the team’s total. Her victory was a centerpiece of the Day 13 schedule and a massive boost for Team USA’s aspirations.
On the slopes, Mikaela Shiffrin erased any lingering doubts from earlier in the Games by storming to victory in the women’s slalom. The veteran champion, showing all her class and experience, attacked the course with precision to claim her second career Olympic gold medal. This victory, coupled with the U.S. men’s hockey team’s dramatic overtime win against Sweden to advance in the tournament, made for an unforgettable day for American fans. The collective efforts have positioned the United States strongly as the final days of competition approach.
With only a few days remaining, the focus now shifts entirely to the final push for podium places. The battle for the top of the gold medal count 2026 leaderboard is intensifying, with traditional powerhouses and surging nations all vying for position. Team USA’s multi-sport success on Day 13—from the oval to the rink to the Alps—has provided vital momentum. As the world watches the medals olympics 2026 totals update, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Milan-Cortina Games.