At the 2026 Milan Cortina Games, love blossomed between rivals as Jean-Luc Baker, a U.S. ice dancer, proposed to Olivia Smart, a Spanish figure skater, on Valentine's Day. The couple shared their engagement on social media, with Smart expressing her surprise and joy during the romantic proposal, which took place in the streets of Milan while she was on the ice. Their relationship highlights a beautiful turn of events from competition to personal connection in the world of figure skating.

Previously, Baker and Smart were competitors at major events including the 2022 Beijing Olympic Games and several World Championships, where they were both vying for gold; Smart notably finished eighth in the Beijing Games, placing above Baker. This engagement not only marks a significant personal milestone for the couple but also adds a layer of narrative to their competitive history, showcasing the crossover of relationships formed within high-stress environments like the Olympics.

As the 2026 Games approach, their engagement may stir interest among fans and highlight the human side of sports, where athletes often face intense rivalry yet can find love and support in one another. This real-life tale of romance amid competition is likely to resonate with both sports fans and those following the couple's journey as they navigate their personal and professional lives together.