Chock and Bates post world-best 91.06 to lead US in Olympics

Madison Chock and Evan Bates just shattered expectations with a world-best 91.06 points in the rhythm dance. The three-time world champions, married since June 2024, gave Team USA a commanding lead at Milano Cortina 2026. What makes their stunning performance even more remarkable.

Breaking 90 Points, Setting Records

The American ice dancers rocketed to history with their electrifying 91.06 in the team event rhythm dance. No other team even approached their score. France’s Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron, Beijing 2022 gold medalists, scored 89.98 for second place. The gap shows Chock and Bates’ dominance on the ice.

Evan Bates told reporters afterward, “To break 90 is always a great feat, and to do it at an Olympic Games is even better.” Madison Chock added, “This sets Team USA up great for the rest of the week.” Their confidence stems from months of championship preparation and perfect execution under pressure.

Lenny Kravitz Medley Powers Their Victory

Skating to a Lenny Kravitz rock medley, the married duo delivered their finest technical and artistic performance. The rhythm dance format requires skaters to interpret a specific music style. Chock and Bates chose rock and roll songs from the legendary artist. Their footwork, timing, and connection earned judges’ highest marks possible.

The pattern dance step sequence drew particular praise. Judges awarded them top technical marks for this required section. Their 52.77 technical elements score reflects perfect choreography and execution. The remaining points came from program component ratings, including interpretation and partnership quality.

Olympic Journey and Championship Track Record

“We definitely skated great and we’re very happy. To break 90 is always a great feat and to do it at an Olympic Games is even better.”

— Evan Bates, Olympic Ice Dancer

USA Team Event Lead Positions Gold Medal Favorites

Team USA earned 10 points for first place in the opening segment. France scored 9 points, trailing by just 1.08 points overall. The team event features three days of competition across eight segments total. Pairs and women’s short program follow on February 6. Final performances conclude on February 8, 2026.

Great Britain’s Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson placed third with 86.85 points, earning 8 team points. Canada’s Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier scored 85.79 for fourth. The US defending champions from Beijing 2022 now position themselves perfectly for another medal run.

Can Chock and Bates Repeat Their Olympic Glory?

Chock and Bates won team gold four years ago in Beijing. Their rhythm dance dominance suggests another medal is coming. Yet individual free dance competition looms later in Milano Cortina. Multiple segments remain where other countries could gain ground. The American duo’s consistency gives Team USA confidence.

Their world-record breaking performance sent a message to competitors. The pair proved they peaked perfectly for the Olympic stage. Judges’ scores validate Chock and Bates‘ technical precision and artistic artistry. Observers expect them to challenge for individual medals too. Can they repeat their 2022 success or achieve even greater heights in 2026?

Sources

• Olympics.com – Official Winter Olympics 2026 results and athlete coverage from Milano Cortina
• NBC Sports – Live coverage and analysis of Team USA figure skating performance
• US Figure Skating – National team updates and career accomplishments for Chock and Bates

Michael Brown

Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.