Johnny Weir's Olympic Figure Skating Career Ends Without a Medal

The two-time Olympian and current NBC commentator never reached the podium at the Winter Games.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Johnny Weir, a prominent figure skating commentator for NBC, competed in two Winter Olympics during his career - in 2006 and 2010 - but never won a medal. Despite winning three straight U.S. national titles from 2004-2006 and a bronze medal at the 2008 World Championships, Weir's best Olympic finish was fifth place in 2006. He retired from competitive skating in 2013 and has since become a fixture in NBC's Olympics coverage, often drawing attention for his bold fashion choices.

Why it matters

Weir's Olympic career highlights the challenges even elite figure skaters can face in reaching the podium at the Games. His story provides insight into the pressures and disappointments top athletes can experience, as well as the resilience required to have a long and successful career in the sport.

The details

Weir won his first major title at the 2001 World Junior Championships, becoming the first American to do so since 1998. He then won three straight U.S. national titles from 2004-2006, the first skater to accomplish that feat since Brian Boitano in the late 1980s. However, Weir was unable to translate that domestic success to the Olympic stage, finishing fifth in 2006 and sixth in 2010. He dealt with back pain during the 2008 World Championships, where he won bronze, and also received criticism for his fashion choices during the Olympics.

  • Weir won the World Junior title in 2001.
  • Weir won three straight U.S. national titles from 2004-2006.
  • Weir won bronze at the 2008 World Championships.
  • Weir competed in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy.
  • Weir competed in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Canada.

The players

Johnny Weir

A two-time Olympian and three-time U.S. national champion, Weir is now a prominent figure skating commentator for NBC.

Tara Lipinski

Weir's fellow NBC figure skating analyst, with whom he has contributed to the network's Olympics coverage.

Brian Boitano

The figure skater who previously held the record for most consecutive U.S. national titles, which Weir matched from 2004-2006.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Despite his success at the national level, Weir's Olympic career serves as a reminder that even elite athletes can face setbacks and disappointments on the biggest stage. His story highlights the perseverance and resilience required to have a long and successful career in figure skating.