The U.S. trio dubbed the “Blade Angels” is transforming women’s figure skating at the Milan Games, blending athletic power, bold personalities, and individuality while challenging the sport’s traditional ice-princess image.
WEBDESK – Act Global Media
The new faces of American women’s figure skating are rewriting decades of tradition, and they’re doing it on their own terms.
At the Milan-Cortina Winter Games, the trio of Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito has embraced the nickname “Blade Angels,” presenting a bold, modern identity far removed from the delicate “ice princess” stereotype that once defined the sport.
Power, personality and individuality
Amber Glenn, 26, stands out as the veteran of the group and a three-time U.S. champion whose success has come at an age when many skaters begin stepping away from competition. Known for her outspoken views — from social issues to pop-culture interests — Glenn has become both a fan favorite and a polarizing figure.
Alysa Liu, 20, offers a different narrative. A prodigy who once retired at just 16, Liu returned to the sport to capture the first world title for an American woman in nearly 20 years. Her unconventional look and rebellious style have earned her strong support among younger fans and alternative culture communities.
Isabeau Levito, 18, initially appears closest to the traditional image of past teenage champions. Yet off camera, her sharp humor and confident personality reveal a competitor equally determined to redefine expectations.
A new era for the sport
The trio adopted the nickname “Blade Angels,” inspired by the pop-culture trio dynamic — and intentionally rejected more stereotypical or commercialized alternatives. The branding reflects their broader message: figure skating can be powerful, outspoken, and authentic.
Together, they represent a generational shift. Athleticism, identity, and individuality now share equal importance with elegance and presentation — a change that could influence how the sport evolves in the coming years.
With Olympic medals on the line, the “Blade Angels” are chasing more than podium finishes.
They’re reshaping what it means to be a women’s figure skater in America.
