2026 Winter Olympics Women’s Singles Free Skating : The women’s singles event in figure skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan reaches its conclusion on Thursday, February 19, when the free skating segment decides the Olympic medals. Gold, silver and bronze will only be confirmed after the free skate concludes, as the total scores from both the short programme and the free skating are combined to determine the final standings.
Competition Format and Key Dates
The Olympic women’s singles competition is divided into two segments. The short programme was completed on February 17, setting the initial rankings. The medal-deciding free skating segment is scheduled for February 19.
Unlike the short programme, the free skate is a longer routine and carries a higher scoring value. Because it contributes a larger portion of the overall total, it frequently alters the leaderboard established earlier in the competition. The final podium order will be shaped by performances delivered in this decisive round.
Standings After the Short Programme
Following the short programme earlier this week, the competition remains closely contested. The small gap between the leading skaters keeps the medal race open heading into the final night.
- 1st: Ami Nakai (Japan)
- 2nd: Kaori Sakamoto (Japan)
- 3rd: Alysa Liu (USA)
With minimal separation among the top three, even slight differences in execution, jump quality or combinations during the free skating segment could dramatically reshape the podium positions.
Importance of the Free Skating Segment
The free skating portion is widely regarded as the defining phase of Olympic figure skating. Skaters are permitted to attempt more difficult jumps, complex combinations and extended choreography compared to the short programme. Because of its greater scoring weight, the free skate often determines the ultimate medal outcome.
A technically clean performance featuring high-difficulty elements can elevate a skater into gold medal position. On the other hand, visible mistakes, falls or under-rotations can result in significant drops in placement once the cumulative scoring is calculated.
Medal Contenders to Watch
Kaori Sakamoto remains one of the strongest contenders entering the final. The experienced Japanese skater is known for composure under pressure and has consistently delivered in major competitions.
Ami Nakai leads the standings after the short programme and holds a slight advantage heading into the free skate. Maintaining precision and confidence will be essential as she aims to convert her lead into an Olympic medal.
Alysa Liu, currently in third place, stands as the top American challenger. With the leaderboard tightly packed, a high-scoring routine in the free skating segment could move her into silver or gold depending on how the skaters ahead perform.
Several additional finalists also remain within reach of the podium. Given the narrow margins, the final segment presents an opportunity for movement throughout the rankings.
Final Results and Timing
The women’s singles free skating final will take place Thursday evening in Milan. Official results are expected shortly after the event concludes, once judges confirm the combined totals from both competition segments.
With Olympic medals at stake and the standings separated by only slim margins, the women’s singles free skating final is set to deliver one of the most competitive finishes of the figure skating programme at Milano Cortina. By the end of the session, new Olympic champions in women’s singles figure skating will be crowned.
Mitch Marner Olympic OT Win vs Czechia | Canada Completes Comeback to Reach Semifinals
