Olympics 2026 Shocker: USA's Ilia Malinin Falls Twice in Free Skate, Fails to Medal in Men's Singles Figure Skating Final
Ilia Malinin had a shocking outcome in the Men’s Singles Figure Skating finals.
The 21-year-old Team USA figure skater fell twice while competing in the free skate program on day seven of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games on Friday (February 13) at Milano Ice Skating Arena in Milan, Italy.
Ilia came in first place with a major lead during the short program earlier in the week and he was a clear favorite to win the gold medal once the free skate program scores were added.
Unfortunately, Ilia fell twice during his program, earning a score of 156.33 for the free skate. With his two skates combines, Ilia came in 8th place overall, failing to medal.
Kazakhstan’s Mikhail Shaidorov won the gold medal and Japan took home both the silver and bronze.
Olympic sportsmanship at its finest. ???? #WinterOlympics pic.twitter.com/ZahQr7pnOo
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 13, 2026
Ilia did win a gold medal over the weekend in the Team Event!
Get the scoop on the “Quad God” athlete’s love life and what he has said about his relationship status.