The highlights and lowlights of the 2026 Winter Olympics
Vox
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Avvenia were marked by a mix of extraordinary achievements and unexpected scandals, making them a memorable edition of the Games. While Norway emerged as the top medal-winning country with 41 total medals, including 18 golds, the event was also defined by compelling stories of resilience, controversy, and even fraud. Among the standout moments were Alysa Liu’s historic gold medal win in figure skating, Eileen Gu’s continued success on the global stage, and a series of scandals involving athletes and officials that added unexpected drama to the Games.
Alysa Liu’s victory was not just a triumph of skill but also a testament to her personal journey. At 16, she became one of the youngest gold medalists in history, skating an awe-inspiring performance to Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park.” Her win came after overcoming significant challenges, including burnout and retirement at such a young age. Liu returned to skating with a renewed focus on mental health and emphasized the importance of joy and artistry over competition pressures. Her story resonated deeply, highlighting the human side of elite sports and the need for greater attention to athletes’ well-being.
Meanwhile, Eileen Gu’s performance on the slopes showcased her growth as one of China’s most decorated Olympians. Despite criticism from U.S
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Originally published on Vox on 2/23/2026