USA’s Erin Jackson Aims for Speed Skating Glory Again at Milan Olympics (Exclusive)
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Erin Jackson, the USA’s speed skater, is setting her sights on Olympic gold once more at the upcoming Milan Olympics. The 32-year-old athlete, who made history in 2022 by becoming the first Black woman to clinch a Winter Olympic medal in an individual sport, is ready to embrace the challenge of defending her title. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Jackson expressed her excitement and determination, stating, “I really welcome the pressure, so I guess I’m a little bit different in that regard.”
Jackson, who hails from Florida, is looking forward to the upcoming World Championships as a stepping stone towards the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. Reflecting on her journey in speed skating, she recounted her rapid rise in the sport since first donning ice speed skates in 2016. Within just two years of starting the sport, she had already qualified for the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics. Jackson admits that each Olympic experience has been unique, with a steep learning curve and challenges to overcome.
The road to success has not been without its hurdles for Jackson. She reminisced about her early struggles on the ice, including difficulties in getting on and off the track. However, with perseverance and dedication, Jackson has honed her skills and technique over the years, evolving into a top contender in the sport. She acknowledges that there is always room for improvement in the highly technical world of speed skating, with athletes constantly striving to refine their techniques throughout their careers.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw nearer, Jackson is poised to follow in the footsteps of American speed skating legend Bonnie Blair by aiming to secure back-to-back Olympic gold medals. Despite her achievements and accolades, Jackson remains humble and focused on her continuous growth as a skater. She emphasises the importance of staying committed to the sport and constantly seeking ways to elevate her performance on the ice.
With just one year to go until the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, all eyes will be on Jackson as she prepares to defend her title and make her mark once again in the world of speed skating. Her unwavering determination and passion for the sport serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and fans alike. Jackson’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication in pursuing one’s dreams on the global stage of Olympic competition.
The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics are scheduled to commence in February 2026, with NBC and Peacock set to broadcast the prestigious event. As Jackson gears up for the upcoming games, she remains focused on her goal of securing another historic victory and etching her name further in the annals of speed skating history. Stay tuned to witness Erin Jackson’s quest for Olympic glory and her relentless pursuit of excellence on the ice.