Famous American Figure Skaters

Dick Button is an accomplished American former figure skater and skating analyst known for his exceptional achievements in the sport. He is a two-time Olympic champion and five-time consecutive World champion. Button was the first skater to successfully land the double Axel jump in competition and the first to perform a triple loop. He is also credited with inventing the flying camel spin, which was initially named the "Button camel." Button's contributions brought heightened athleticism to figure skating in the post-World War II era.

Gracie Gold is an accomplished American figure skater known for her achievements in the sport. She has excelled at both the national and international levels, winning multiple medals and championships throughout her career. Gold's success includes a bronze medal at the 2014 Olympics, six Grand Prix medals, and two U.S. national championships. She has also set records, such as achieving the highest short program score by an American woman. Beyond her skating prowess, Gold is a mental health advocate and award-winning author, further showcasing her diverse talents and contributions to the skating community.

Meryl Davis is a former competitive American ice dancer who achieved great success alongside partner Charlie White. Together, they became the 2014 Olympic champions, 2010 Olympic silver medalists, two-time World champions, five-time Grand Prix Final champions, three-time Four Continents champions, and six-time U.S. national champions. They made history as the first American ice dancers to win the World title and the Olympic title. Davis also won the eighteenth season of Dancing with the Stars in 2014 with partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy.

Ronald Robertson was a highly accomplished American figure skater known for his exceptional spinning abilities. He achieved significant success in the 1950s, winning the silver medal at the 1956 Winter Olympics and twice clinching the silver at the World Figure Skating Championships. Despite facing controversies during his competitive career, Robertson transitioned to a successful coaching role and continued to make a significant impact in the figure skating world, leaving a lasting legacy with his skills and kindness until his passing in 2000.

Sarah Hughes is a retired American figure skater who achieved great success in her career. She won the Olympic gold medal in 2002 and earned a bronze medal at the World Championships in 2001. Known for her elegant skating style and technical proficiency, Hughes made a significant impact in the world of ladies' singles figure skating during her competitive years. Her achievements on the ice solidified her status as one of the top skaters of her time, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Nancy Kerrigan is an American former figure skater known for her achievements in the sport. She won bronze and silver medals at various World Championships and Winter Olympics. Kerrigan was inducted into the United States Figure Skating Hall of Fame in 2004. She faced a high-profile incident in 1994 when she was attacked by an assailant hired by a rival's ex-husband. Despite the setback, Kerrigan recovered and continued her successful skating career, participating in various ice skating troupes and even appearing on Dancing with the Stars in 2017.

Lynn-Holly Johnson is an American retired figure skater and former actress. She gained recognition in the mid-1970s for her accomplishments as a figure skater before transitioning to a successful acting career. Johnson's notable roles include a Golden Globe-nominated performance in the 1978 film "Ice Castles" and portraying Bibi Dahl in the 1981 James Bond movie "For Your Eyes Only." Throughout her professional life, she showcased her talents on both the ice and the screen, leaving a lasting impact in both realms.

Debi Thomas is an accomplished American figure skater and physician. She made a mark in the skating world by becoming the 1986 World champion, the 1988 Olympic bronze medalist, and a two-time U.S. national champion. Her intense rivalry with East Germany's Katarina Witt at the 1988 Calgary Olympics was famously dubbed the Battle of the Carmens. In addition to her successful figure skating career, Debi Thomas also pursued a career in medicine, showcasing her dedication and versatility in different professional fields.

Nathan Chen is a highly accomplished American figure skater known for his exceptional technical skills and dominance in the sport. He holds numerous titles, including Olympic champion, World champion, Grand Prix Final champion, and U.S. national champion. Renowned for his mastery of quadruple jumps, Chen has broken world and national records, earning the nickname "Quad King." He is the first skater to have landed all types of quadruple jumps except the quadruple Axel in competition. Chen's achievements have solidified his status as one of the greatest men's figure skaters of all time.

Michelle Kwan is a retired competitive figure skater and diplomat who served as the United States Ambassador to Belize. She is a two-time Olympic medalist, a five-time world champion, and a nine-time U.S. champion, tying the all-time National Championship record. Kwan is the most decorated figure skater in U.S. history, known for her consistency and expressive artistry on ice. She maintained her status as one of America's most popular female athletes and landed numerous major endorsement deals. Kwan also became active in politics, particularly with the Democratic Party.

Sasha Cohen is a retired American figure skater known for her exceptional artistry, flexibility, and musical interpretation. She achieved significant success in her career, including winning the silver medal at the 2006 Olympics, multiple World Championship medals, and the 2006 U.S. Championship. Cohen's performances were characterized by her graceful body lines and expressive interpretation of music. As of 2024, she remains the most recent American woman to have individually medaled in figure skating at the Olympics, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Peggy Fleming is an accomplished American former figure skater who won the gold medal in ladies' singles at the 1968 Winter Olympics, making her the sole American gold medalist at that event. She also clinched the title of World Champion in the same event three times consecutively from 1966 to 1968. Following her competitive career, Fleming transitioned into a successful television commentary role in figure skating, spanning over two decades and including coverage of multiple Winter Olympic Games.

Dorothy Hamill is a retired American figure skater known for her impressive achievements in ladies' singles skating. She rose to fame as the 1976 Olympic champion and 1976 World champion, showcasing her exceptional skills and artistry on the ice. Hamill's impact on the sport extended beyond her competitive successes, as she also popularized the iconic "Hamill Camel" spin. Throughout her professional career, she inspired many with her grace, talent, and dedication to the sport of figure skating.

Scott Hamilton is a retired American figure skater known for his remarkable achievements in the sport. He won numerous U.S. championships, World Championships, and an Olympic gold medal. Hamilton was famous for his signature move, the backflip, which he incorporated into his exhibition and professional routines despite it being against competition rules. He was also renowned for his innovative footwork sequences. After retiring, Hamilton dedicated himself to charitable work and authored three books, leaving a lasting impact on the figure skating community.

Brian Boitano is a highly accomplished American figure skater known for his exceptional achievements in the sport. He rose to fame as the 1988 Olympic champion, 1986 and 1988 World Champion, and 1985–1988 U.S. National Champion. Turning professional post the 1988 season, Boitano made a comeback in 1993 to compete at the 1994 Winter Olympics. His remarkable contributions to figure skating led to his induction into both the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame and the United States Figure Skating Hall of Fame in 1996.

Kristi Yamaguchi is a highly accomplished former competitive figure skater, author, and philanthropist. She is renowned for her success in women's singles figure skating, having won the Olympic gold medal in 1992, as well as being a two-time World champion and U.S. champion. Yamaguchi also excelled in pairs skating with Rudy Galindo, winning the World Junior championship and two national championships. After retiring from competition, she continued to shine in professional figure skating, winning multiple championships. Additionally, she is a successful author with several published books, including a New York Times Best Seller.

Janet Lynn Nowicki is a highly accomplished American figure skater known for her impressive achievements in the sport. She rose to prominence as the 1972 Olympic bronze medalist and continued to excel, earning two world championships medals. With a total of five senior Ladies U.S. national championship titles to her name, Janet Lynn solidified her status as one of the top skaters of her time. Her professional career showcases her dedication, skill, and consistency in the competitive figure skating arena.

Dan Jansen is a retired American speed skater known for his success in sprint events and at the Winter Olympics. He was a multiple world champion in sprint disciplines and a favorite at the Winter Games. Jansen made history by breaking a ten-year Olympic jinx when he secured a gold medal in his final race, the 1,000 meters, at the 1994 Winter Olympics. His perseverance and dedication to his sport have solidified his legacy as one of the greats in speed skating history.

Tara Lipinski is a former competitive figure skater who achieved great success in her career. She is known for being the 1998 Olympic champion, the 1997 World champion, and a two-time Champions Series Final champion. Lipinski was the youngest skater to win U.S. Nationals and become an Olympic and World champion. She also made history as the first woman to complete a triple loop-triple loop combination in competition. After retiring from competitive skating, Lipinski continued to excel in professional figure skating and became a renowned sports commentator.

David Wilkinson Jenkins is a highly accomplished American former figure skater, known for his impressive achievements in the sport. He secured the title of Olympic champion in 1960 and also clinched the bronze medal at the 1956 Olympics. With three World championship titles to his name, he displayed exceptional skill and consistency on the international stage. Additionally, Jenkins proved his dominance by winning the U.S. national championship four times, further solidifying his status as one of the most successful figure skaters of his time.

Hayes Alan Jenkins is an American former figure skater renowned for his exceptional achievements in the sport. He rose to fame as the 1956 Olympic champion, securing his place in history as a four-time World champion from 1953 to 1956. Jenkins also dominated the U.S. national figure skating scene, clinching the national championship title four times consecutively from 1953 to 1956. His remarkable success and skill on the ice solidified his legacy as one of the most accomplished figure skaters of his time.

Todd Eldredge is a highly accomplished American former competitive figure skater known for his successful professional career. He achieved numerous accolades, including being the 1996 World champion, a six-time U.S. national champion, a three-time Olympian, and a six-time World medalist. Throughout his career, Eldredge consistently displayed exceptional skill and dedication to his sport, earning widespread recognition and respect within the figure skating community. His impressive achievements and competitive success have solidified his legacy as one of the most talented figure skaters of his time.

Charlie White is an accomplished American former competitive ice dancer who achieved great success with his partner Meryl Davis. Together, they won numerous prestigious titles including Olympic Champion, World Champion, Grand Prix Final Champion, Four Continents Champion, and U.S. National Champion multiple times. Their partnership made history as the longest-lasting dance team in the United States, and they were pioneers in American ice dancing by being the first to win World and Olympic titles. White and Davis also made waves by achieving level fours on all their elements at the 2006 NHK Trophy.

Evan Lysacek is an accomplished retired figure skater known for his numerous championship titles, including the 2010 Olympic champion and 2009 World champion. Throughout his career, he also achieved success as a two-time Four Continents champion, a Grand Prix Final champion, and a two-time U.S. national champion. Lysacek's outstanding athletic achievements were recognized with awards such as the United States Olympic Committee's SportsMan of the Year and the prestigious James E. Sullivan Award. In 2016, he was honored with induction into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame.

Jackson Haines was an influential American figure skater and roller skater credited with revolutionizing the sport of figure skating. He is considered the father of modern figure skating due to his innovative techniques and choreography that combined elements of ballet with traditional ice skating. Haines' professional career was characterized by his significant contributions to the development of figure skating, including introducing new movements and styles that have had a lasting impact on the sport to this day.

Mirai Aileen Nagasu is a highly accomplished American figure skater known for her impressive achievements in the sport. She has won multiple medals at prestigious events such as the Olympic Games, Four Continents, and World Junior Championships. Notably, Nagasu made history by becoming the first American woman to successfully land a triple Axel at the Olympics and by cleanly executing eight triple jumps in a single international competition. Her remarkable skills and dedication have solidified her reputation as a top figure skater in the world.

Adam Rippon is a retired American competitive figure skater and media personality known for his achievements in the sport. He is a decorated athlete, having won various championships such as the Four Continents Champion and U.S. National Champion. Rippon made history as the first openly gay man to compete in the U.S. Winter Olympic team and win a medal. He has also showcased his talents beyond skating, winning Dancing with the Stars and appearing on TV shows like RuPaul's Drag Race and Messyness. Rippon continues to contribute to the figure skating world through broadcast analysis and media appearances.

Dianne Holum is a retired American speed skater who achieved success both as an athlete and a coach. She won multiple medals at the World Allround Championships and the Winter Olympics, including a gold medal in the 1500 meter event. After retiring from speed skating at a young age, she became a coach and helped mentor several successful athletes, including Eric Heiden and his sister Beth Heiden. Holum's coaching career led to her induction into the National Speedskating Hall of Fame and the International Women's Sports Hall of Fame.

Irving Jaffee was a renowned American speed skater who achieved great success during his career. He made history by winning two gold medals at the 1932 Winter Olympics, where he became the most successful athlete alongside Jack Shea. Jaffee's remarkable performance marked the first time that two Americans had clinched medals in speed skating at a Winter Olympics, solidifying his legacy in the sport. His accomplishments on the ice showcased his exceptional talent, dedication, and competitive spirit, inspiring future generations of speed skaters.

Carol Heiss Jenkins is an accomplished American former figure skater and actress. She achieved remarkable success in her career as a ladies' singles skater, winning the Olympic gold medal in 1960, a silver medal in 1956, and securing the World champion title five times consecutively from 1956 to 1960. Her dedication, skill, and competitive spirit propelled her to the top of the figure skating world, solidifying her legacy as one of the most successful and talented figures in the sport's history.

Christopher Bowman was a highly successful American figure skater known for his achievements on both the national and international stage. He won two World medals, including a silver and a bronze, and was also a World Junior champion. Bowman was a two-time U.S. national champion and competed in two Olympic Winter Games, finishing 7th in 1988 and 4th in 1992. Known for his artistic performances and technical skill, he left a lasting impact on the sport of figure skating.

Yaroslav Vadymovych Paniot is a Ukrainian-American figure skater who competes for the United States. He has achieved notable success in international and national competitions, including being a two-time Ukrainian national champion and earning medals at events such as the CS Tallinn Trophy and Philadelphia International. Paniot has represented Ukraine at various ISU Championships and helped secure a spot for his country at the 2018 Winter Olympics. He continues to showcase his talent and dedication to figure skating at a competitive level.

Tonya Harding is a former figure skater and retired boxer. She achieved success in figure skating, becoming a two-time U.S. champion, a World silver medalist, and the first American woman to land a triple Axel in international competition. However, she faced controversy in 1994 when her ex-husband orchestrated an attack on her rival, resulting in her being banned for life from figure skating. Harding later transitioned to professional boxing and her life has been the subject of various media adaptations and documentaries.

Tenley Albright is a prominent figure skater and surgeon, known for her achievements in both fields. As a figure skater, she has won numerous prestigious titles including Olympic champion, World Champion, and U.S. national champion. Albright is also recognized for her academic accomplishments, having graduated from Harvard Medical School. Her contributions to both the sports and medical communities have been celebrated, leading to her induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 2015.

Alexia Paganini is a renowned Swiss-American figure skater who competes in ladies' singles, representing Switzerland. She has achieved significant success in her career, including winning various championships such as the CS Nebelhorn Trophy, Halloween Cup, and Slovenia Open. Paganini has also clinched the Swiss national champion title multiple times. Additionally, she has represented Switzerland at the Winter Olympics, finishing in the top 25 in both the 2018 and 2022 editions. Her dedication and talent have solidified her reputation as a top figure skater in the sport.

Johnny Weir is a retired American figure skater and television commentator. He is a two-time Olympian, a World bronze medalist, a three-time U.S. National champion, and the 2001 World Junior Champion. Known for his classical skating style, he was praised for being a lyrical skater and an entertaining artisan. Weir often designed his own costumes and later became known for his fashion choices as a broadcaster. He joined NBC as a commentator in 2014, where he became a primary figure skating analyst for the Olympics.

Karol Kennedy Kucher was an accomplished American pair skater who achieved great success alongside her brother Peter. Together, they secured five U.S. Championship titles between 1948 and 1952. Known as "The Kennedy Kids," the duo reached the pinnacle of their careers by winning the World Championship in 1950. Their talents also earned them a silver medal in the 1952 Winter Olympics. Karol's dedication to the sport and remarkable performances solidified her reputation as a formidable figure in the world of pair skating.