The World Figure Skating Championships kick off Wednesday and the United States has a lot on the line. Reigning men's singles champion Ilia Malinin will look to defend his title in Boston, while women's singles standout Amber Glenn is turning in the best season of her career.

Amber Glenn jumps like a pole-vaulter, collects lightsabers, is pansexual and, at 25, has blossomed at an age when many peers have retired.

Ilia Malinin is heavily favored to defend his figure skating world championship this week in what should be a preview of the competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics.