What Is Sarah Hughes Up to Now? A Look into the Life of the Olympic Figure Skater

Long before Team USA figure skater Alysa Liu struck gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Americans rallied behind Sarah Hughes.

In 2002, Hughes made her way to Salt Lake City to compete against the world’s elite in figure skating.

Despite being seen as an underdog at the 2002 Olympic Games, Hughes exceeded all expectations by defeating fellow American Michelle Kwan to claim the gold medal.

“Many people had written me off and didn’t believe I could do it,” Hughes remarked post-victory. “I honestly didn’t think it would be achievable.”

As Team USA continues to celebrate Liu’s triumph in Milano Cortina, Us Weekly reflects on Hughes’ remarkable achievement and her life today. Read on to discover how the Olympian has been thriving over two decades after her victory:

Why Was Sarah Hughes’ Gold Medal Win Significant?

During the 2002 Winter Olympics, Sarah Hughes faced skepticism from analysts who believed she wouldn’t medal, largely because she hadn’t triumphed in major women’s singles events prior to the Olympics.

However, the New York native astounded the nation at just 16, securing the gold medal in ladies’ singles figure skating.

Upon her return to Long Island, New York, Hughes was celebrated with a festive parade.

How Did Sarah Hughes Feel About Alysa Liu’s Gold Medal Win?

Sarah Hughes was present in Milano Cortina to witness Alysa Liu’s powerful performance and win in women’s figure skating.

“Massive congratulations to OLYMPIC CHAMPION @alysaxliu!!! ⛸️🥇🇺🇸⛸️🥇🇺🇸⛸️🥇🇺🇸,” Hughes posted on Instagram in February 2026, sharing moments from the medal ceremony. “I’m so excited and grateful to witness you become the latest American Women’s Olympic Champion in Figure Skating! 👏👏👏 (The first video was taken right after I stopped crying!).”

During her visit to the 2026 Olympics, Hughes also enjoyed catching up with fellow skaters Scott Hamilton and Ilia Malinin.

What Is Sarah Hughes’ Current Profession?

After earning her degree from Yale and studying law at the University of Pennsylvania, Sarah Hughes took on the role of an attorney.

She has also stepped into the role of host for the “Good as Gold” podcast, featuring candid discussions with Olympic gold medalists.

Is Sarah Hughes Married?

Sarah Hughes wed her husband in June 2023.

In her Instagram posts, Hughes chose to keep her husband’s identity private, while sharing glimpses of her wedding dress through professional pictures by Karen Wise.

“June 24, 2023 ✨,” she shared via Instagram one month following her wedding. “Aww!! 🥰🥰🥰 Thank you all for your lovely comments.”

Did Sarah Hughes Pursue a Political Career?

In May 2023, Sarah Hughes declared her candidacy as a Democrat to represent New York’s 4th Congressional District, previously held by Republican Rep. Anthony D’Esposito.

“Long Island can be a wonderful place to live and raise a family. We must address the increasing living expenses,” her campaign donation website stated according to CNN. “We can reinstate the SALT deduction, enabling families to manage their finances without sacrificing their children’s education. Additionally, we can work towards removing assault weapons from our streets to ensure community safety.”

Ultimately, Hughes opted out of the race.

“For those interested, I have chosen not to run for Congress at this moment,” she announced on X in September 2023. “Like many Americans, I have become increasingly disillusioned with our political landscape and leaders in recent years. I will continue advocating for lower healthcare costs, better fiscal use of our tax dollars, and the implementation of pro-growth and innovative economic strategies for our nation.”