US Secures Curling Mixed Doubles Gold Spot with Olympic Victory Over Italy
The United States has secured a spot in the gold medal match for curling mixed doubles at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Korey Dropkin and Cory Thiesse triumphed over Italy’s reigning Olympic champions in the semifinals, marking a significant milestone for the American team.
Match Overview
On February 9, 2026, in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, Dropkin and Thiesse faced Amos Mosaner and Stefania Constantini in a thrilling semifinal. This match was particularly important as the U.S. duo sought revenge after losing to the Italian pair earlier in the round robin stage.
The semifinal showcased intense competition, characterized by lead changes. Dropkin and Thiesse secured a vital three points during the fourth end, allowing them to take an early lead.
Thrilling Conclusion
As the match progressed, the Italian team fought back. They reclaimed the lead with three points in the seventh end, making the score 8-7 in their favor. However, the Americans displayed remarkable resilience in the eighth end.
- Dropkin and Thiesse needed two points to win the match.
- Thiesse executed a strategic play, pushing the Italian stone out of the scoring zone.
- This clinched victory for the United States, sending them to the gold medal match.
Upcoming Challenges
With this win, Team USA prepares to compete against Swedish siblings Rasmus and Isabella Wrana in the final. Regardless of the outcome, this performance ensures that Dropkin and Thiesse will earn the first Olympic curling medals for American mixed doubles since the event’s introduction in 2018.
In the 2018 Winter Olympics, John Shuster’s men’s team won gold, but no American mixed duo has medaled until now. This achievement highlights a new era for U.S. curling mixed doubles on the Olympic stage.
