World silver medalist Isabeau Levito announced her withdrawal from the upcoming U.S. Figure Skating Championships due to a foot injury, raising concerns about her participation in the upcoming world championships. Levito’s decision comes as a setback for the Olympic contender, who has not competed since her third-place finish at Skate America in October. Her injury also led her to withdraw from the Finlandia Trophy, another Grand Prix event, which eliminated her chance to compete at the Grand Prix Final.
“I am heartbroken to say that I won’t be able to compete at nationals this year due to a foot injury,” Levito expressed. She won the U.S. title two years ago and secured a third-place finish last year. “This is not at all how I envisioned my season, but I want to ensure that I recover fully without pain or limitations. I wish good luck to all my fellow competitors and friends participating, and I hope to join them soon.”
With Levito’s absence, Michelle Lee will take her place in the women’s competition in Wichita, Kansas. Additionally, Ava Ziegler and Clare Seo will not be competing at nationals and have been replaced by Alexa Gasparotto and Brooke Gewalt.
At just 17 years old, Levito has consistently emerged on the podium in her Grand Prix assignments over the last three years and is regarded as a strong candidate for a medal at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. There is still an opportunity for her to petition U.S. Figure Skating for a spot at the world championships in March in Boston, especially considering her impressive performance at Skate America, along with her accolades from the lower-level events like the Cranberry Cup and Nebelhorn Trophy.
The senior-level U.S. championships are set to commence on January 23, featuring pairs and women’s short programs, extending throughout the weekend. This competition serves as a crucial factor in determining the U.S. team for the world championships.
Amber Glenn is the current U.S. champion and remains undefeated this season, having triumphed at the Lombardia Trophy and sweeping her Grand Prix assignments at the Cup of China and Grand Prix de France. Her victory at the Grand Prix Final marked her as the first American woman to achieve this honor since Alissa Czisny in 2010.
Glenn reached out to Levito via social media, sending “healing vibes” and later voiced her support during a Zoom call. “I’m very proud of Isabeau for prioritizing her health,” said Glenn, highlighting that her potential far exceeds the significance of a single national championship.
