As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold in Italy, Ilia Malinin has emerged as one of Team USA’s brightest stars. The 21-year-old two-time world champion is competing in his first Olympic Games and has already captured gold in the team event.
While his performances on the ice continue to command global attention, fans are equally curious about his life away from competition—particularly his relationship status.
Focused on gold, not romance
Malinin’s priorities are clear. In an interview with People ahead of the Games, the Fairfax, Virginia native addressed the growing curiosity surrounding his personal life. Rather than fueling speculation, he offered a straightforward answer.
“I know how nerve-racking the Olympics can be, but I’m really excited,” Ilia Malinin said. “I want to put my priorities into my career first and just see where that takes me.”
The statement underscores his current mindset. With the pressure of his maiden Olympic appearance and the weight of expectations as a two-time world champion, Malinin has chosen to keep his focus firmly on skating instead of dating.
Olympic spotlight and rising expectations
Malinin entered the Milano Cortina Games riding significant momentum. Fresh off his victory at the 2025 World Championships in Boston and a third consecutive Grand Prix Final title, he arrived in Italy as a strong favorite.
He played a decisive role in Team USA’s gold medal finish in the team event, delivering under pressure during the free skate to secure a one-point victory over Japan. It marked the United States’ second consecutive team gold and Malinin’s first Olympic gold medal.
Now, his attention has shifted to the individual competition. Known as the “Quad God” for his technical mastery, Malinin scored an impressive 108.16 in the short program, earning a 5.09-point lead over Japan’s Yuma Kagiyama heading into the free skate.
Relationship status: Single and career-driven
For now, Ilia Malinin appears single and fully invested in his athletic journey. With an individual Olympic gold within reach and his career trajectory soaring, the American figure skating star is prioritizing legacy over romance.
As the free skate approaches at the Milano Ice Skating Arena, Malinin’s focus remains unwavering—on medals, milestones, and making history.