The 2024 Skate America competition kicked off with a captivating display of artistry and athleticism in the women’s short program. Two American skaters, Isabeau Levito and Bradie Tennell, rose to the occasion and now sit atop the leaderboard heading into the decisive free skate.
Levito Channels Hollywood Glamour
Reigning world silver medalist Isabeau Levito, just 17 years old, enchanted the crowd with a sophisticated performance set to music from the classic film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. Dressed in an elegant black dress reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn’s iconic look, Levito exuded grace and maturity beyond her years.
“I’m really glad that I skated well,” Levito remarked after earning a score of 68.43 points. “I’m excited to keep working on this program. I love it.” Her only minor misstep came on a slightly under-rotated triple lutz-triple toe loop combination, but she rebounded beautifully with a double axel and triple flip later in the program.
Tennell Triumphant in Comeback
Hot on Levito’s heels is compatriot Bradie Tennell, who delivered a stellar performance in her return to major competition. The two-time U.S. champion suffered a devastating ankle injury during a practice session last year, requiring multiple surgeries and months of arduous rehabilitation.
But you would never know it from watching Tennell’s confident and polished short program set to music from the Irish dance show “Lord of the Dance”. She earned a score of 66.99, just 1.44 points behind Levito, with her only error being a slight under-rotation on the second half of a triple lutz-triple toe loop combination.
I wasn’t sure if I was ever going to be able to jump again. It was a very long road and I am so grateful to my recovery team.
– Bradie Tennell on her comeback
Pairs and Men’s Short Programs
In the pairs event, world silver medalists Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara of Japan took a commanding lead with an electrifying short program set to “Paint it Black” by the Rolling Stones. Their score of 77.79 puts them well ahead of the American duo of Ellie Kam and Danny O’Shea, who sit in second with 70.66 points.
The men’s short program and rhythm dance events are set to begin tomorrow, along with the conclusion of the pairs and women’s competitions with the free skate. All eyes will be on Levito and Tennell to see if they can maintain their momentum and secure a 1-2 finish for the United States.
A Promising Start to the Season
Skate America marks the exciting start of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating, a series of six international events featuring the world’s top skaters. Strong performances here can set the tone for the rest of the season, building confidence and momentum towards nationals, worlds, and ultimately, the 2026 Winter Olympics.
For Isabeau Levito, already a world medalist at such a young age, Skate America provides an opportunity to further establish herself as a leading contender and continue her artistic growth. And for Bradie Tennell, a successful return to competition is a testament to her resilience and unwavering love for the sport.
As the event unfolds, skating fans around the globe will be treated to a dazzling display of jumps, spins, and choreography from some of the most talented athletes in the world. The beauty, power, and passion of figure skating will be on full display, reminding us all why it remains one of the crown jewels of the Winter Olympic Games.
