Key Highlights
- Cam Bolton fractures neck in training, ruling him out of the Games.
- Misaki Vaughan sustains concussion from a fall during training.
- Australia’s Jakara Anthony advances to the women’s moguls final with a score of 81.25.
- Matthew Graham reaches the men’s moguls final as Australia’s flag bearer.
Day Four Blues at Milano Cortina: Injuries and Triumphs
As the Winter Olympics 2026 unfolded in Italy, it was a day filled with both triumph and tragedy for the Australian team. The stage was set for excitement when two of Australia’s most promising athletes, Cam Bolton and Misaki Vaughan, were ruled out after training falls.
Bolton’s Neck Fracture: A Hard Fall
Cam Bolton, a seasoned athlete preparing for his third Olympic campaign, took a heavy fall in training on Monday. His pain levels worsened to the point where he was transferred to Milan’s hospital for a CT scan. The results were not favorable; Bolton suffered two stable neck fractures and will be replaced by James Johnstone.
Concussion Fallout: Vaughan’s Setback
Misaki Vaughan, another Australian athlete, also met with misfortune when she fell during training on Tuesday. She sustained a concussion and under the protocol, will miss her event for seven days, effectively ruling her out.
Aussie Stars Shine Despite Challenges
While the bad news loomed large, Australia’s Jakara Anthony continued to impress. The defending champion showcased remarkable skill in the women’s moguls qualifying round with a score of 81.25, topping the leaderboard and securing her place in Thursday’s final.
Athletic Spirit Endures
Anthony’s performance was nothing short of brilliant, setting the stage for an exciting showdown. Her teammates Emma Bosco and Charlotte Wilson also competed, though they missed automatic qualification for the finals.
The Global Stage: Olympic Highlights
Meanwhile, on a global scale, the Winter Olympics continued to unfold with significant events in various disciplines. Norway’s Johannes Høsflot Klæbo secured his seventh Olympic gold medal after dominating the men’s cross-country sprint classic final. In another event, Linn Svahn led Sweden to victory as they took home a 1-2-3 in the women’s medal race.
Figure Skating Drama
The figure skating scene saw Ilia Malinin of the United States claim the lead in the short dance with an impeccable routine, pushing Yuma Kagiyama to second. Adam Siao Him Fa of France also made a strong showing, leading with his routine inspired by Leonardo da Vinci.
Day Four: A Mixed Bag
The day brought both success and setbacks for Australia’s athletes. While Anthony’s performance was a bright spot, the injuries to Bolton and Vaughan serve as a reminder of the inherent risks in winter sports. The competition continues with high stakes and even higher expectations as the Games progress.