Canada’s Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps have withdrawn from the figure skating team event at the Milano Cortina Olympics following an injury to Stellato-Dudek. The 42-year-old, who made a remarkable comeback after 16 years away from the sport, is the oldest female world figure skating champion after winning in 2024 with Deschamps. Her participation in the individual pairs event remains uncertain as her condition is being assessed daily.
The Canadian Olympic Committee emphasized that athlete health and safety are their top priority. Stellato-Dudek’s potential victory in Milan would make her the oldest pairs skater to win an Olympic title. The team event is scheduled for Friday to Sunday, while the individual pairs competition will take place on February 15 and 16.
This development casts doubt on what could have been a historic moment for Stellato-Dudek, whose comeback story has inspired many. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful for her recovery and possible participation in the individual event.
Lindsey Vonn suffered a left knee injury during her final downhill race before the Olympics in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. Despite the setback, the 41-year-old skier remains hopeful for a recovery in time for the Milan Cortina Winter Games, stating on Instagram, “My Olympic dream is not over.” The race was canceled following her crash, which occurred under challenging conditions with low visibility.