Madison Chock and Evan Bates Lead Team USA in Olympic Figure Skating with World-Best Rhythm Dance Performance

Madison Chock and Evan Bates electrified the Milano Ice Skating Arena on Friday with a world-best rhythm dance performance, scoring 91.06 points to stake Team USA to an early lead in the figure skating team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The three-time world champions were the only ice dance pair to break the 90-point barrier, delivering a Lenny Kravitz-inspired routine that demonstrated why they remain the gold standard in the discipline. The American duo's commanding performance set the tone for Team USA's campaign to defend their Olympic team event title. Chock and Bates secured the maximum 10 points for their country with a technically flawless and artistically captivating program that featured intricate footwork sequences, seamless transitions, and the magnetic chemistry that has defined their partnership. Their score surpassed their top competition and established a new world-leading mark for the 2026 season, sending a clear message to their rivals about their gold medal ambitions. France's Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron, the Beijing 2022 Olympic champions, finished second in the rhythm dance segment but were unable to match the Americans' scoring pace. The French pair delivered a strong technical performance but couldn't generate the same level of difficulty and execution that elevated Chock and Bates to their world-best score. The packed crowd at the Milano arena witnessed a masterclass in ice dance, with Chock and Bates' program drawing roars of approval and standing ovations from spectators. The rhythm dance represents just the opening salvo in a three-day team competition that will test the depth of each nation's figure skating roster across all disciplines. Team USA's early momentum is critical, as strong performances in the opening segments can provide psychological advantages and point cushions that prove decisive in the final standings. Chock and Bates' 91.06 score not only secured maximum points for the United States but also reinforced their status as the favorites to claim individual ice dance gold later in the Olympic program. The American pair's Lenny Kravitz routine showcased their unique ability to blend athletic prowess with theatrical performance. Their interpretation of the music, combined with technically demanding elements executed with precision, demonstrated years of training and partnership refinement. At 32 and 35 years old respectively, Chock and Bates are skating at the peak of their powers, using experience and maturity to deliver performances that younger competitors simply cannot replicate in terms of artistry and emotional connection. As the Milano Cortina Games continue into their second week, the figure skating team event will build toward its conclusion with free skate performances across all disciplines. Team USA's early lead, built on the foundation of Chock and Bates' brilliant rhythm dance, positions the defending champions favorably as they look to retain their team title. For Chock and Bates personally, the performance validates their decision to continue competing past the previous Olympic cycle and establishes them as the clear favorites for individual ice dance gold when that competition begins later in the Games. Their world-best score has set a new benchmark that will force every other ice dance team to raise their level if they hope to challenge for Olympic medals in Milano Cortina.