Olympic Rivals Fall in Love, Get Engaged at Milan Games
A US ice dancer proposed to his Spanish figure skater fiancée on Valentine's Day in Milan, proving love wins even when nations compete. The couple, who once faced off as rivals on Olympic ice, shared their engagement with fans worldwide.
When Jean-Luc Baker dropped to one knee in the streets of Milan on Valentine's Day, he wasn't thinking about team rivalries or national pride. He was thinking about the Spanish figure skater who had stolen his heart, even though they once competed against each other for Olympic glory.
Baker, a former United States Olympic ice dancer, proposed to Olivia Smart during the 2026 Milan Cortina Games. Smart said yes, and the couple shared a heartwarming video on Instagram with the caption "It's always been you."
The proposal came just days after Smart competed in the ice dance with partner Tim Dieck, finishing ninth in the competition. Baker watched from the stands, the ring waiting in his pocket for the perfect moment.
Their love story began as a friendship between competitors. At the 2022 Beijing Games and two World Championships, Baker and Smart skated for different countries, chasing the same dreams. Smart placed eighth in Beijing while Baker finished 11th, proving talent doesn't care about geography.
Baker brought home bronze at the 2018 Winter Games but hasn't competed since 2023 due to injuries. Smart continued her career with Spain, but their paths kept crossing off the ice.
Sunny's Take
This engagement reminds us that competition doesn't have to divide us. Baker and Smart spent years perfecting their craft, representing different nations, and pushing each other to be better. But underneath the flags and scores, they built something deeper than any medal could represent.
Smart may not have left Milan with the hardware she trained for, but she got something better. The couple's Instagram video shows Baker holding up the ring while Smart performs below, a beautiful moment of two worlds coming together.
Their story proves that some of the best partnerships form in unexpected places. The ice brought them together as competitors, but love made them teammates for life.
In a world that often focuses on what divides us, this Olympic romance shows what happens when we let connection win.
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Based on reporting by Fox News Latest Headlines (all sections)
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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