Ben Ogden made history for Team USA by winning a silver medal in the men’s cross-country skiing sprint classical race at the 2026 Winter Olympics. His impressive finish with a time of 3:40.61 not only secured the medal but also ended a long drought for American men in this sport, as it was the first medal won in cross-country skiing since Bill Koch achieved this in 1976. Ogden finished just behind Norway’s Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, who took gold with a time of 3:39.74.

This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering that countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland have historically dominated the sport of cross-country skiing. Ogden's podium finish marks a significant milestone for American athletes in a discipline where success has been elusive for decades. The excitement surrounding his victory is amplified by the competitive nature of the event and the high-caliber athletes he was able to outperform in the semifinals and the final.

Ogden's victory is not only a personal triumph but also reflects the growing strength and competitiveness of Team USA in winter sports. His coach and teammates have expressed pride in his performance, and his achievement is likely to inspire young skiers in the U.S. to pursue the sport. As the Winter Olympics continue, Ogden's success may serve to highlight the potential for more American athletes to rise in disciplines that have historically been dominated by European nations.