The final day of the team event was highlighted by a 137.53-point program from two-time Olympian Mirai Nagasu, who became the first American woman to land a triple Axel at the Olympic Games. The score marked Nagasu’s international career-best, which put her in 2nd place in the ladies free skate segment, and earned nine points toward Team USA’s overall total score of 62.
"Four years ago when, I was left off the (Olympic) team, I wanted to make another Olympic Team, and I knew I would really have to be something special," Nagasu said. "So to become the first American (ladies figure skater) to land a triple Axel at the Olympic Games is historical, and no one can take that away from me."
Adam Rippon earned seven points for Team USA with a clean free skate worth 172.98. The performance marked Rippon's Olympic debut.
"This is my opportunity to just get my feet under me on Olympic ice, but more than that, it's to help get Team USA that medal," Rippon said. "I want to be one of the first medals here at the Games."
Maia and Alex Shibutani secured the United States’ second consecutive Olympic team event bronze by placing second in the free dance with 112.01 points, earning another seven points for Team USA.
"I'm speechless," Maia said. "It's been such a journey for us, so much work. To experience this Olympic medal not just with each other, but also our friends and teammates, it's a great way to start our second Olympic Winter Games."
