“Go get that gold!” – Madonna’s surprise message leaves US figure skater Amber Glenn “legitimately shaking” ahead of Olympic short program

an unexpected boost at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, sending her a personal video message before the women’s short program on February 17. The singer praised Glenn’s routine to “Like a Prayer” and told her to go for gold, creating a widely shared moment just hours before the event.

The timing mattered. Glenn entered the competition with strong results behind her and realistic medal hopes. Still, hearing directly from the artist whose music shaped her program caught the 26-year-old off guard and added another layer to an already important night.

Amber Glenn, who is from Plano, Texas, worked through early career setbacks and mental health challenges to reach this stage. Her progress showed throughout the 2025–26 season.

In January, she won her third straight U.S. national title and posted a short program record of 83.05 points while skating to Madonna’s song. Earlier in the Olympics, she finished third in the team event free skate, helping the United States secure gold with 69 points, ahead of Japan.

Her short program includes a triple Axel attempt and a burgundy costume modeled after the look from the “Like a Prayer” music video. Glenn is part of the American group known as the “Blade Angels,” alongside 2025 world champion Alysa Liu and Isabeau Levito.

Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto headlines a deep field, making the event highly competitive.

After watching a clip of Glenn’s routine, Madonna recorded a message for her. “I just watched you dance to my song, ‘Like A Prayer,’ and I have to tell you I was blown away by it. You are an incredible skater. So strong, so beautiful, so brave. I can’t imagine that you would not win, so I just want to say good luck. Go get that gold!”

Glenn reacted by covering her mouth and saying she was “legitimately shaking.”

She called Madonna an icon and thanked her for supporting athletes and their artistic work, adding that she hoped to do the song justice.

There was a brief concern before the Games when Glenn’s team planned to use “The Return” by Seb McKinnon for the free skate without initial clearance. The situation was resolved without dispute.

Before the Olympics, Glenn had joked that even a message telling her not to use the music would still be exciting because it would come from Madonna.

Instead, she received encouragement.

The women’s short program took place February 17, with Glenn skating in the final group. Her national title run and team gold placed her among the top contenders.

Taylor Swift also appeared in an NBC promotion supporting the Blade Angels, adding more attention to the American skaters. The free skate is scheduled for February 19. Glenn will try to convert a strong season, team success, and high-profile support into an individual Olympic medal.