Skate America Launches the 2024-25 Figure Skating Grand Prix Season
The international figure skating season is set to ignite in Allen, Texas, as the 2024 Skate America competition kicks off the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series from October 18-20. This prestigious event will gather some of the world’s elite skaters, all vying for a strong start to their competitive year. The lineup promises thrilling performances, with reigning World Champion Ilia Malinin leading a formidable American contingent.
‘Quad God’ Ilia Malinin Returns to Defend Title
All eyes will be on Ilia Malinin, the American sensation known for his incredible quad jumps, as he begins his season on home ice. The reigning World Champion is a major draw for the event and will be looking to defend his Skate America title. His technical prowess and innovative programs make him a favorite to top the podium in the men’s singles event. Malinin’s performance in Texas will set the tone for what is expected to be another dominant season for the young star.
U.S. Women Led by Levito and Tennell
The women’s event will feature a compelling American lineup with 2024 World silver medalist Isabeau Levito and two-time U.S. champion Bradie Tennell taking center stage. Levito, who has medaled at her last two Skate America appearances, is poised for a strong showing. For Tennell, this competition marks a significant step in her return to elite competition after being sidelined with injuries. Her presence adds a layer of experience and resilience to the U.S. team.
Star-Studded Field in Allen
The competition in Allen will feature top skaters from around the globe, ensuring a high level of performance across all four disciplines. The U.S. team is further bolstered by two-time World champion ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates. The official assignments from the International Skating Union promise a weekend of can’t-miss figure skating.
| Discipline | Notable Competitors |
|---|---|
| Men | Ilia Malinin (USA), Kévin Aymoz (FRA), Kao Miura (JPN) |
| Women | Isabeau Levito (USA), Bradie Tennell (USA), Wakaba Higuchi (JPN) |
| Pairs | Riku Miura & Ryuichi Kihara (JPN), Ellie Kam & Danny O’Shea (USA) |
| Ice Dance | Madison Chock & Evan Bates (USA), Lilah Fear & Lewis Gibson (GBR) |
The Road to the Grand Prix Final
Skate America is the first of six events in the ISU Grand Prix series. Skaters compete in a maximum of two events, earning points based on their placements. The top six skaters or teams in each discipline will qualify for the highly anticipated ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final, which will be held in Grenoble, France in December. A strong performance in Texas is crucial for athletes hoping to secure a spot in the final.
Absences and Other Notable Assignments
While the Skate America lineup is stacked, fans will note the absence of 2022 Olympian Alysa Liu and reigning U.S. Champion Amber Glenn from this event. Liu is scheduled to make her much-anticipated return to the Grand Prix circuit at Skate Canada International. Glenn will begin her season at the Cup of China and Finlandia Trophy. These assignments the top American talent across the series, setting up exciting showdowns throughout the fall season.
Source for Grand Prix assignments: U.S. Figure Skating