The US moved away from its heartland to set a Winter Olympics high in Italy
Guardian Sport
by Beau DureFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The United States has continued to dominate the Winter Olympics, even as other nations make strides in traditionally strong American sports like snowboarding. While this shift isn’t seen as negative but rather as a sign of growing global competition, it highlights the US’s ability to maintain its position at the top.
In 2002, the US set records with 10 gold medals and 34 overall medals in Utah, marking a significant milestone. Fast forward to 2026, where the US broke these records again by winning 12 golds and reaching 30 medals outside North America for the first time. Norway emerged as a dominant force, securing 18 golds, but the US remained competitive despite the rise of other nations.
This evolution in the Winter Olympics underscores the increasing global talent pool and the fierce competition among countries. For sports enthusiasts, it’s an exciting era where even as other nations challenge American dominance, the US continues to push boundaries and achieve new heights. The story of the US代表团’s enduring success, alongside rising competitors, offers a compelling narrative of adaptability and excellence in international sports.
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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/23/2026