The United States figure skating and speed skating teams held a press conference ahead of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics on Wednesday. CGTN Sports Scene's Greg Laffradi was in attendance, soliciting details on their preparations for the upcoming competitions.

Two-time figure skating world champion Ilia Malinin will make his Games debut in Italy. He admitted there is a lot of pressure for him to handle as a top gold medal contender. But the 21-year-old said it's something everyone has to go through while finding their motivation, before expressing gratitude for all the support he has enjoyed and promising to do his best.

Meanwhile, speed skater Erin Jackson, who will take part in the Winter Olympics for the third time, has been selected as Team USA's opening ceremony flagbearer. The 33-year-old noted that attending the curtain-raising gala is amazing enough, but added that carrying her country's flag will provide even greater motivation.