Olympic Icon Nathan Chen Shocks Fans—Quits to Attend Medical School Before 2026 Games
In a stunning career twist, two-time Olympic figure skating champion Nathan Chen has confirmed he will *not* compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics. Instead, Chen is stepping away from the ice to pursue medical school. The Yale graduate is exploring specialties in cardiology or oncology with a focus on genetics, marking a bold new chapter in his life.
His choice comes after a decorated skating career—including a world-record short program and multiple gold medals—solidifying his legacy and making this transition all the more remarkable.
— In this video, we’ll break down why Chen made this decision, how his academic interests align with his future goals, and what it means for U.S. figure skating heading into Milano 2026. Stay tuned for reactions and what’s next.