KEY POINTS
- Chock and Bates secured their seventh US national title, surpassing Meryl Davis and Charlie White for most all time.
- Their free dance program, featuring a matador and bull theme to Paint It Black, contributed to a double digit victory margin.
- The duo has appeared on the podium 14 of the past 15 championships, demonstrating sustained dominance in American ice dance.
ANAHEIM, California — Madison Chock and Evan Bates cemented their status as the United States’ premier ice dance duo on Saturday, claiming their seventh US national championship at the 2026 US Figure Skating Championships.
The victory broke a tie with Meryl Davis and Charlie White for the most national titles in American ice dance history.
Their performance at Anaheim Ice set a season best benchmark, with a short program score of 91.70, followed by a dominant free dance that earned them a total of 228.87 points, a margin of 15.22 points over second place finishers Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik.
“This is the best way to end it, your nationals, is to skate great and have a standing ovation like that to end the night is just perfect,” Bates said after the event.
Chock described the moment as “special” and expressed gratitude for the support from fans and her partner.
The 2026 US Figure Skating Championships highlighted Chock and Bates’ enduring influence on American ice dance.
Their victory marks another milestone in a career that spans more than a decade, establishing the pair as a consistent force on both national and international stages.
With the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics approaching, the championship win also positions them as key medal contenders.
Chock and Bates have competed in 15 US championships, claiming the podium in 14, including six titles in the last seven years.
Their rivalry with emerging teams such as Zingas and Kolesnik reflects a generational shift in American ice dance, yet the pair continues to demonstrate technical precision and artistic consistency.
Historically, US ice dance has been defined by periods of dominance by pairs such as Davis and White, whose record now falls behind Chock and Bates.
This longevity and repeated success are rare in a sport where minor errors can significantly affect scoring.
Skating analysts note that Chock and Bates’ success is a result of sustained technical development and strategic program design.
“Their free dance this year is a masterclass in storytelling and athleticism,” said Karen Howard, former US figure skating coach and technical advisor.
“They balance risk and execution in a way that keeps them ahead of emerging competitors.” Sports economists also emphasize the broader significance of consistent championship performances.
“Dominance at national levels often correlates with sponsorship and funding opportunities for US figure skating programs,” said Dr. Peter Lin, sports management professor at the University of Michigan.
“Chock and Bates’ record extends beyond personal achievement it strengthens the visibility of ice dance in America.”
| Year | Event | Short Program Score | Free Dance Score | Total Score | Margin Over Second Place | Title Count |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | U.S. Championships | 91.70 | 137.17 | 228.87 | 15.22 | 7 |
| 2025 | U.S. Championships | 89.50 | 134.20 | 223.70 | 12.10 | 6 |
| 2024 | U.S. Championships | 88.90 | 132.50 | 221.40 | 10.50 | 5 |
| 2018 | U.S. Championships | 87.20 | 128.90 | 216.10 | 8.70 | 1 |
This table highlights the trajectory of Chock and Bates’ scoring dominance over the past eight years, showing a steady increase in both technical and performance points.
“The feeling we got from the audience today was unlike anything I’ve ever felt before,” Chock said, tears welling in her eyes.
“It felt so special, I felt so much love and joy and I’m so grateful for this moment to share with everyone here and to share with Evan.”
Emilea Zingas, second place finisher, acknowledged the pair’s dominance. “Madison and Evan continue to raise the bar. Competing against them challenges us to grow,” she said.
Vadym Kolesnik added, “Their consistency is remarkable. Even with new programs, they find ways to push the technical and artistic limits every season.”
Chock and Bates now focus on the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, where they aim to complete the Olympic medal chapter of their careers.
Analysts note that their experience and tactical approach in scoring may provide a competitive edge in high pressure international events.
Their continued success also signals sustained influence in US ice dance, encouraging younger skaters to pursue both artistic and technical mastery. The pair’s record breaking achievements may redefine expectations for longevity and consistency in elite ice dance.
Madison Chock and Evan Bates’ seventh US championship not only sets a national record but reinforces their status as leaders in American ice dance.
Their blend of technical skill, program innovation, and audience engagement underscores the enduring appeal and competitiveness of the discipline. As they prepare for the Winter Olympics, their legacy will continue to shape US figure skating for years to come.
Author’s Perspective
In my analysis, Madison Chock and Evan Bates’ dominance illustrates how technical precision combined with innovative choreography drives long term success in US ice dance.
Their consistency sets a benchmark that shapes training and program strategies across the sport.
I predict the US Figure Skating Federation will introduce performance based incentives rewarding sustained national success, influencing which teams reach Olympic contention.
For fans and aspiring skaters, this emphasizes that scoring mastery and artistic storytelling are equally crucial.
Track ISU technical scoring trends to align training with high value elements for competitive advantage.
NOTE! This report was compiled from multiple reliable sources, including official statements, press releases, and verified media coverage.
