The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan were a highly successful campaign for the ice dancing duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates. The duo first secured gold in the team figure skating event and then silver in the individual ice dance event, marking their 3rd Olympic medal together. This was a highly emotional moment for Chock, who was elated with the victory.
Chock and Bates have shared the ice as partners since 2011, their connection deepening into romance by 2016. Their journey together culminated in a sunlit wedding in Hawaii on June 20, 2024.
Madison Chock Shares Emotional Video
Born in Redondo Beach, California, Chock took up figure skating at the age of 12 after her family relocated to Novi, Michigan, to help support her career. She established herself on the international stage when she won the 2009 World Junior title with her previous partner, Greg Zuerlein, and eventually went on to work with Bates.
On Instagram, Chock posted a heartfelt video, weaving together childhood footage of her skating with triumphant scenes from the Milan podium, a powerful reminder of her incredible journey.
“Little Madi would be thrilled ♡” she wrote.
In the ice dance, Chock and Bates took up a strong position after the rhythm dance, and then skated a strong free dance to “Paint It Black,” scoring 134.67, for a total of 224.39 – finishing 1.43 points behind gold medalists Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron of France.
Chock On Her Silver Medal Win
Aside from the Olympics, Chock and Bates have amassed many titles, including three Four Continents golds (2019, 2020, 2023), three Grand Prix Finals (2023-24 and prior), plus multiple silvers and bronzes at Worlds and Grand Prix events.
After adding another medal to their storied careers, Chock reflected on her performance in Milan alongside Bates:
“I think the real accomplishment is the feeling that we had when we finished our program – that’s the Olympic dream,” Chock said. “That’s the feeling that you want to have when you compete and we got to feel that; and there’s nothing greater.”
“It really felt like we delivered a gold medal performance,” Chock continued. “And for us, in our minds and in our hearts, we know that to be true. [But] you prepare for anything as an athlete. You have the mental strength to overcome any scenario.”
Bates reflected that Milan would forever hold a special place in their Olympic memories and shared that the lessons and skills they have gained together will endure long after their competitive days.
