The 1992 Olympic gold medalist actually first found success as a pairs skater, teaming with Rudy Galindo to win U.S. juniors in 1986 and world juniors in 1988.
But going solo was the move, as her triumph in Albertville would confirm. Afterward, Yamaguchi—who became the first Asian American woman ever to win at the Winter Olympics—toured as a pro for years and founded the Always Dream Foundation, which provides funding for after-school programs and other educational essentials for underprivileged children.
She’s made numerous TV and movie cameos, authored a best-selling children’s book, released a fitness video, created an active-wear line and, last but not least, in 2006, she became the first Olympic figure skating champion to win Dancing With the Stars.
Looking back at her legacy ahead of the 2026 Winter Games, she expressed gratitude for the oppotunrity. “I thank my lucky stars every day that things worked out the way they did,” she told the Nob Hill Gazette. “I can’t imagine how my life would be if it turned out differently.”
In April 2026, Yamaguchi confirmed that she and husband Bret Hedican had divorced after 23 years of marriage, telling People she and the former NHL player “amicably thought maybe we aren’t at our happiest and we’d be happier separating.”
The parents of daughters Keara and Emma met during the 1992 Olympics, where he was making his debut with the U.S. hockey team, and married in 2000.
