The United States has officially announced its roster for the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, featuring a total of **232 athletes**. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) released the roster on **Monday**, showcasing a diverse group of competitors who embody the spirit of Team USA. According to **USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland**, these athletes demonstrate “extraordinary commitment, perseverance and spirit.”
The roster includes **117 men** and **115 women**, representing a wide range of sports and ages. Notably, the youngest athlete is **Abby Winterberger**, a **15-year-old freeskier** from California, while the oldest is **Rich Ruohonen**, a **54-year-old curler** from Minnesota, making history as the oldest American to compete at the Winter Olympics. Both Winterberger and Ruohonen will experience their first Olympic Games in Milan.
Veterans and New Faces Prepare for Competition
Team USA’s roster not only highlights emerging talent but also features seasoned athletes. Among those returning for their fifth Olympic appearance are renowned competitors such as **Lindsey Vonn**, **Kaillie Humphries**, and **Elana Meyers Taylor**. Other notable five-time Olympians include hockey player **Hilary Knight**, figure skater **Evan Bates**, and snowboarders **Faye Thelen** and **Nick Baumgartner**.
Meyers Taylor leads a contingent of **33 returning medalists**, showcasing the USA’s strong position in Olympic competition. She has previously won three silver medals and two bronze, while Humphries boasts an impressive three gold medals. Additionally, **Mikaela Shiffrin** and **Chloe Kim** are notable athletes with two golds each.
The opening ceremony for the Games is scheduled for **February 6, 2026**, in Milan, with some events beginning as early as **February 4**. This edition of the Winter Olympics is set to be the most geographically dispersed in history, with Milan serving as the central hub for hockey, figure skating, and speedskating. Events such as skiing, snowboarding, and biathlon will be held in **Cortina** and several nearby mountain clusters, including the newly introduced sport of ski mountaineering.
The anticipation is building as Team USA prepares to showcase its talent on the world stage, promising thrilling performances and inspiring stories from athletes across the nation.
