Amber Glenn’s story is one of resilience, triumph, and vulnerability. The 26-year-old figure skater made headlines at the 2026 Olympics in Milan-Cortina as part of Team USA, where her stunning performances helped secure a gold medal in the team free skate. But Glenn’s journey to the podium wasn’t just about athletic skill—it was also a testament to her mental strength and self-awareness. Her candid discussions about mental health, ADHD, and eating disorders have made her a role model for many, especially in a high-pressure sport like figure skating.
- Amber Glenn won gold with Team USA at the 2026 Olympic free skate event, showcasing her mental and physical strength.
- She has openly discussed her experiences with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and eating disorders, bringing visibility to mental health in sports.
- Glenn’s incredible comeback in the singles event earned her 5th place, despite initial setbacks.
- She is CorePower Yoga’s Mental Health Month Ambassador, highlighting the link between movement and mental well-being.
- Madonna’s recognition of Glenn before her short program was a confidence boost during a challenging moment.
Amber Glenn’s Olympic Journey: A Display of Strength and Perseverance
When Amber Glenn performed her signature triple axel at the 2026 Olympics, audiences were captivated not just by her physical prowess but also by her mental fortitude. Glenn’s skating career has been punctuated by moments of vulnerability and self-reflection, particularly regarding her mental health struggles. Diagnosed with ADHD at 11, Glenn has spoken openly about how stepping back from skating to focus on her well-being transformed her approach to the sport.
“At one point, I had to take a step back and not skate anymore,” Glenn told Bustle in a recent interview. “It really changed how I approached skating and approached my mental health.”
Her efforts paid off in February, when her free skate performance helped Team USA clinch the gold medal alongside fellow skaters Alysa Liu, Madison Chock, Evan Bates, Ilia Malinin, Ellie Kam, and Danny O’Shea.
Overcoming Setbacks in the Singles Event
While Glenn’s team performance was a resounding success, her singles journey proved to be a rollercoaster. Skating to Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” in the short program, Glenn was a favorite for gold but stumbled on an incomplete jump, landing her in 13th place. However, her ability to regroup and deliver a stellar free skate just two days later brought her back to 5th place, a comeback that inspired fans worldwide.
Madonna’s recognition of her talent before the short program was a significant morale boost. “It was an honor to be recognized by someone who is such a staple in their industry,” Glenn said. “And it was nice to have support from the crowd in person, too.”
A Voice for Mental Health in Sports
Glenn has long championed mental health awareness, using her platform to shed light on struggles that athletes often face behind the scenes. As CorePower Yoga’s Mental Health Month Ambassador, she is highlighting the importance of movement in achieving mental wellness. Glenn shared that yoga has been a crucial tool for her, particularly as someone who thrives on physical activity.
“A relaxation technique that’s more mental can make me anxious,” Glenn explained. “Making my body do something physical to reset really helps me.”
CorePower Yoga’s offerings, which include heated vinyasa flows and high-intensity classes, align perfectly with Glenn’s preference for grounding herself through movement. Her ambassadorship aims to bridge the gap between physical and mental health for athletes and everyday individuals alike.
What This Means for You
Amber Glenn’s story is a reminder of the power of resilience and self-care in the face of challenges. Her willingness to openly discuss her mental health struggles breaks down stigma and encourages others to seek help when needed. For readers, Glenn’s journey underscores the importance of finding personalized strategies for well-being, whether through movement, therapy, or mindfulness.
If you’re someone who struggles with anxiety or stress, consider incorporating activities like yoga, as Glenn does, to ground yourself. Additionally, her emphasis on listening to your body and knowing when to step back is vital advice for anyone pursuing ambitious goals.
Lastly, Glenn’s comeback in the singles event serves as a powerful example that setbacks don’t define your journey—they’re part of it. Whether you’re chasing a personal achievement or navigating a tough time, resilience and persistence can carry you forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Amber Glenn help Team USA win gold?
Answer:
Her free skate performance in the team event contributed significantly to Team USA’s overall score, securing their gold medal.
Question?
What mental health challenges has Amber Glenn discussed?
Answer:
Glenn has been open about her experiences with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and an eating disorder, highlighting the importance of mental health in sports.
Question?
What is CorePower Yoga’s Mental Health Awareness campaign?
Answer:
The campaign, for which Glenn is an ambassador, emphasizes the connection between physical movement and mental well-being through yoga and other practices.
Question?
What advice does Amber Glenn give for managing anxiety?
Answer:
She recommends grounding techniques, such as physical movement, breathing exercises, and finding moments to slow down and reset.
Question?
What’s next for Amber Glenn’s career?
Answer:
She is currently touring with Stars on Ice and continuing to promote mental health awareness through her ambassadorship and public appearances.
