Andrew Torgashev: The Resilient Star of Team USA’s Olympic Figure Skating Squad
MILAN, 10 February 2026 — As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics reach a fever pitch on Day 4, American figure skater Andrew Torgashev has solidified his status as a cornerstone of the U.S. men’s delegation. Following a historic gold medal for Team USA in the figure skating team event yesterday, Torgashev took to the ice today for the men’s singles short program, delivering a performance that underscores a career defined by perseverance and technical refinement.
Olympic Debut and Current Standings
In the men’s singles short program held earlier today, Torgashev delivered a “lovely routine,” according to live reports from the Mediolanum Forum. Scoring 88.94, he briefly moved into first place during the qualifying rounds, showcasing the poise that has made him a two-time U.S. national silver medalist. This performance comes just 24 hours after Team USA secured the gold medal in the overall team event, a victory decided by a single point over their closest competitors.
Torgashev is part of a formidable American trio in the men’s individual event, competing alongside reigning world sensation Ilia Malinin and Maxim Naumov. While Malinin has captured headlines with his technical boundary-pushing, Torgashev is widely praised for his artistry and “rink rat” work ethic.
A Legacy of Excellence: Background and Early Career
Born on 29 May 2001, in Coral Springs, Florida, Andrew Torgashev was destined for the ice. He is the son of Soviet-born skaters; his mother, Ilona Melnichenko, was the 1987 World Junior champion in ice dancing, and his father, Artem Torgashev, also competed at a high international level.
Torgashev’s rise was meteoric. In 2015, at just 13 years old, he became one of the youngest skaters to win the U.S. junior national title. Despite facing significant injury setbacks in the years that followed, he remained a consistent threat on the international circuit, winning the JGP Lithuania in 2018 and eventually transitioning into a top-tier senior competitor.
Key Career Statistics
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | 29 May 2001 |
| Birthplace | Coral Springs, Florida, USA |
| Height | 170 cm |
| Coaches | Rafael Arutyunyan, Brandon Frazier |
| Choreographers | Shae-Lynn Bourne, Nadia Kanaeva |
| Major Titles | 2015 U.S. Junior Champion, 2024 Grand Prix de France Bronze Medalist |
The Road to Milan: 2025-2026 Season
Torgashev’s path to the 2026 Winter Olympics was paved with consistent podium finishes. He entered the Olympic season on the heels of a silver medal at the 2025 Nebelhorn Trophy and a second consecutive silver medal at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships (2025 and 2026).
Resilience Amidst Tragedy
The 2026 Olympic cycle has been emotionally charged for the U.S. team. Torgashev and teammate Maxim Naumov share a somber bond; both are children of Soviet immigrant coaches. Tragically, Naumov’s parents were killed in a plane crash last year, an event that has cast a shadow of resilience over the entire squad. Torgashev has been noted for his support of his teammates during this difficult period as they represent the United States on the world’s biggest stage.
Artistry and Technical Style
Torgashev is often described as a “skater’s skater.” While the modern era of the sport is dominated by the “quad revolution,” Torgashev is lauded for his deep edges, sophisticated choreography by Shae-Lynn Bourne, and his ability to blend athletic power with classical poise. His hobbies, including hiking and rock climbing, reflect the physical strength required for his demanding programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Has Andrew Torgashev won an Olympic medal?
As of 9 February 2026, Andrew Torgashev is an Olympic Gold Medalist as part of Team USA, which won the figure skating team event. He is currently competing for an individual medal in the men’s singles event.
Who are Andrew Torgashev’s parents?
His mother is Ilona Melnichenko (1987 World Junior ice dance champion) and his father is Artem Torgashev. Both were elite skaters for the Soviet Union before moving to the United States.
Where does Andrew Torgashev train?
Torgashev trains under the tutelage of renowned coaches Rafael Arutyunyan and Brandon Frazier. He represents the United States and lists Florida as his home town.
What was Torgashev’s score in the 2026 Olympic short program?
He scored 88.94 in the men’s singles short program on 10 February 2026, placing him in a strong position for the upcoming free skate.