### The Ascendance of the Blade Angels: An Insight into USA Figure Skaters Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito at the 2026 Winter Olympics
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, USA figure skaters Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito won the admiration of viewers globally with their outstanding performances, distinctive styles, and captivating personalities. Known as the “Blade Angels,” this trio infused a new dynamism into the sport, blending athletic prowess with a punk flair that resonated profoundly with supporters both on and off the ice.
#### Remarkable Performances on Ice
The Blade Angels exhibited their extraordinary talent throughout the event. Amber Glenn concluded Team USA’s journey on a triumphant note, making history by showcasing *Magic: The Gathering*—a move that was never seen in Olympic competitions. She secured fifth place in the women’s free skate and played a pivotal role in the team’s success by clinching gold in the team skating event.
As the closing ceremony approached, Glenn celebrated her accomplishments in a memorable way—tearing open a Lorwyn Eclipsed collector booster pack while surrounded by her teammates, with lights flashing and music booming. Her enthusiastic display not only emphasized her abilities on the ice but also her love for gaming. Additionally, she shared her findings with fans, featuring a rare foil Bloom Tender card, although the elusive Bitterbloom Bearer remained a missing gem in her collection.
#### A Fresh Face for *Magic: The Gathering*
Glenn’s passion for *Magic: The Gathering* was highlighted in her Olympic profile video, where she elaborated on the game’s premise, underscoring its strategic and collectible nature. She expressed her affection for the community, admitting to visiting local game shops where she frequently played. Her openness about her hobbies portrayed her as relatable, demonstrating that being a figure skater can coexist with interests often viewed as “nerdy.”
“I frequent local game stores and play. I realize it’s nerdy, but it’s my passion and I love it,” she shared, representing a comprehensive perspective on athlete identity that goes beyond competitive endeavors.
#### Highlighting Mental Health and Individuality
In her introspective moments, Glenn stressed the significance of mental health, acknowledging how focusing on life outside competition enhances her overall well-being. She remarked, “My skating and mental health journey are a continuously evolving path… I have hobbies. I have people I cherish outside of the sport.” This focus on personal wellness strongly resonates with a generation that prioritizes sincerity and self-care.
A noteworthy mention of her pet dog, Uki—named after a character from *Magic: The Gathering*—further exemplified her passion and bond with the game and the culture it nurtures.
#### Cultivating a New Epoch of Skating Culture
The emergence of the Blade Angels not only highlights personal achievements but also indicates a transformation in the figure skating culture. Glenn’s enthusiasm for gaming and anime, from instructing fellow skater Alysa Liu on how to play Commander to expressing her anime interests through various outlets, reflects a fusion of passions seldom observed at such elite levels of sport.
Supporters are encouraging game publishers like Wizards of the Coast to acknowledge this increase in visibility created by athletes like Glenn. With the popularity of *Magic: The Gathering* soaring—generating Hasbro $1.7 billion in a single year—the hope of Glenn becoming recognized as an ambassador for the game remains a promising possibility for many in the community.
In conclusion, Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito have transformed the perception of what it means to be a figure skater in today’s world, intertwining athleticism with personal identity and expanding the appeal of their sport to encompass gaming fans and a new generation of enthusiasts. The Blade Angels have made a lasting impact on the figure skating community, and their legacy may encourage future athletes to adopt a multifaceted identity.
