Team USA’s Winter Olympics Medal Dominance

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While the U.S. has been a dominant force at the Summer Olympics, its performance at the Winter Games has been more mixed. The Americans have only topped the gold medal leaderboard once – at the 1932 Lake Placid Games – and have won the most total medals at the Winter Olympics just twice, in 1932 and 2010. However, the U.S. still ranks second in both gold and total medals won at the Winter Games overall, trailing only Norway.

Why it matters

The Winter Olympics provide an opportunity for the U.S. to showcase its athletic prowess on the global stage, and strong performances can boost national pride and interest in winter sports. Understanding the U.S.’ historical performance at the Winter Games can help set realistic expectations and identify areas for improvement.

The details

At the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, the U.S. is currently tied for third in both gold medals (5) and total medals (17), trailing Norway (12 gold, 26 total) and host Italy (8 gold, 22 total). The Americans’ gold medal winners so far include Breezy Johnson, Elizabeth Lemley, and Jordan Stolz (twice), as well as the figure skating team event. Overall, the U.S. has only topped the gold medal leaderboard once, at the 1932 Lake Placid Games, and has won the most total medals at the Winter Olympics just twice – in 1932 and 2010.

• The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina are currently underway, with the Closing Ceremony scheduled for February 22.
• The U.S. last topped the gold medal leaderboard at the 1932 Lake Placid Games.
• The U.S. has won the most total medals at the Winter Olympics on two occasions – in 1932 and 2010.

What’s next

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina will conclude on February 22, with the final medal events taking place in cross-country skiing, bobsled, curling, and men’s hockey.