Love on Ice: Olympic Skaters Olivia Smart and Jean-Luc Baker Announce Engagement
Milan, Italy – The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan have provided a backdrop for athletic achievement, but also for a heartwarming love story. Spanish figure skater Olivia Smart is celebrating more than just her Olympic performance after accepting a proposal from former Team USA ice dancer Jean-Luc Baker on Valentine’s Day, February 14th. The engagement, confirmed by multiple sources, marks a new chapter for the two athletes who previously competed as rivals on the world stage.
The news was shared on Instagram, quickly gaining traction among fans and fellow athletes. While the competition in Milan may not have yielded a medal for Smart in the ice dance event, finishing ninth with partner Tim Dieck, she’s leaving the Games with a prize far more valuable. Baker, who hasn’t competed since 2023 due to injuries, chose a romantic setting to ask for Smart’s hand in marriage, solidifying a connection that blossomed from years of professional rivalry. This story exemplifies the spirit of the Olympics, where competition can give way to respect, friendship, and love.
From Rivals to Romance: A Shared History on the Ice
The path to engagement for Smart and Baker wasn’t a straightforward one. The two athletes had crossed paths for years within the competitive figure skating world, facing off against each other at two World Championships and the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Baker and Smart competed in the same discipline, pushing each other to excel. At the 2022 Beijing Games, Smart finished eighth in the ice dance event, three places ahead of Baker. Despite the competitive tension, a friendship developed over time.
It was after the 2022 Winter Games that Baker reportedly confessed his feelings for Smart, coincidentally on Valentine’s Day. Four years later, he chose the same date, and the setting of the 2026 Milan Cortina Games, to propose. This timing underscores the significance of their connection and the journey they’ve taken from rivals to partners. The couple’s story resonates with the popular “rivals-to-lovers” trope, demonstrating that even in the heat of competition, genuine affection can flourish.
A Celebration of Spanish and American Skating Heritage
Olivia Smart represents Spain on the international stage, and has become a prominent figure in the country’s figure skating program. She recently finished ninth in the ice dance competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics with partner Tim Dieck. Smart is a two-time Olympian, demonstrating her dedication and skill in the sport.
Jean-Luc Baker, formerly representing the United States, boasts an impressive athletic resume as well. He is also a two-time Olympian and secured a bronze medal in the team event at the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang. MSN reports that Baker’s recent injuries led to his retirement from competition in 2023, allowing him to focus on other pursuits, including his relationship with Smart.
Gala Performance and a Touch of Football Flair
Beyond the engagement news, Smart and her partner Tim Dieck captivated audiences with a unique exhibition performance at the Winter Games gala evening on February 21st. The duo took to the ice dressed in the uniform of the Spanish national football team, incorporating a real football into their routine. The performance, set to the energetic 90s hit “Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba, was conceived as a tribute to Spanish sports culture.
The gala evening, a traditional conclusion to the figure skating tournament, provides athletes with a platform to express their creativity without the pressure of competition. Performances are judged solely on artistic merit and entertainment value, allowing skaters to experiment with props and unconventional routines. This year’s gala featured performances from both competition winners and invited athletes, creating a celebratory atmosphere.
Beyond the Ice: Connections and Controversies at the Milan Games
The 2026 Winter Olympics haven’t been without other notable moments. Reports indicate that during the opening ceremony, Tim Dieck encountered Sara Conti, representing Italy, at the national team parade, with a video of their interaction going viral online. According to OBOZ.UA, the video garnered approximately one million views within 24 hours.
There has also been some controversy surrounding the athlete selection process for the gala evening. Russian figure skater Pyotr Gumennik was reportedly initially invited to participate in the demonstration performances but was later removed from the list. The International Skating Union confirmed this decision, following scrutiny regarding the participation of Russian athletes in international competitions.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan continue to deliver both athletic excellence and compelling human-interest stories. The engagement of Olivia Smart and Jean-Luc Baker is a testament to the power of connection and the enduring spirit of the Games.
As the Milan Cortina Games draw to a close, attention will turn to the preparations for the next Winter Olympics in 2030. Fans and athletes alike will be eager to see what new stories and triumphs unfold on the world stage. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of the Olympic movement and its impact on the global sporting landscape.
What are your thoughts on this heartwarming Olympic romance? Share your comments below and be sure to share this story with your friends and family!