Controversy sweeps through curling at the Winter Olympics, in photos

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — A swirling controversy in curling at theMilan Cortina Olympicsis dividing the sport's usually tight-knit community.

APTOPIX Milan Cortina Olympics Curling

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.

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AP Winter Olympics:https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics

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February 16, 2026

Controversy sweeps through curling at the Winter Olympics, in photos

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — A swirling controversy in curling at theMilan Cortina Olympicsis dividing the sport...

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Bold new US trio eyes Olympic figure skating gold while serving as role models for a new generation

MILAN (AP) — The trio of U.S. women targeting Olympic figure skating gold Tuesday night are not the dainty ice princesses of yesteryear.

There's Amber Glenn, a 26-year-old powerhouse andLGBTQ+ rights activistwhose career took off just when most figure skaters are contemplating retirement. The three-time and reigning U.S. champion's unvarnished opinion on everything from politics to the trading card game "Magic: The Gathering" have made hera polarizing figureat the Milan Cortina Games.

Then there's Alysa Liu, the one-time phenom who retired at 16 onlyto launch a comebackthat resulted in thefirst world title for an Americanwoman in nearly two decades. Liu's blond-and-brunette striped hair, prominent frenulum piercing and nonconformist aura have made the 20-year-old a hero of the alt, punk and emo crowd.

And there's Isabeau Levito, perhaps the closest thingto the innocent imageof teen predecessors like Tara Lipinski and Sarah Hughes, right up until you get the 18-year-old away from the cameras, and her searing wit and biting sarcasm shine through.

They've dubbed themselves the "Blade Angels," an homage to "Charlie's Angels," after rejecting such suggestions as "Powerpuff Girls" and "Babes of Glory," which they worried might lead to some trademark issues. (As ifthey needed more of thosein Milan.)

They are a new kind of role model for a new generation of American girls.

They also are the last chance to salvagea disappointing Olympicsfor American figure skaters.

"I really like that we're all different," Levito said, "and we all have our own strengths and personalities, and our own ways we want to look and appear. I think it's really great, because while we all have the same passion for the sport, and we have very aligned goals."

'I thought I would be done at 18'

Glenn grew up in Plano, Texas. Her father, Richard, is a police sergeant and her mom, Cathlene, a fitness instructor. She's represented the U.S. internationallyfor nearly 15 years, which happens to be how old Lipinski was when she won Olympic gold.It's hard to get more unabashedly American. Yet some critics nevertheless questioned her allegiances on the eve of the Milan Cortina Games, when Glenn answered a question about the political climate for the LGBTQ+ community under President Donald Trump."I hope I can use my platform and voice throughout these Games to help people stay strong during these hard times," she said. "A lot of people will say, 'You're just an athlete. Stick to your job. Shut up about politics.' But politics affect us all."Glenn probably wouldn't have taken such a bold stance a decade ago, when she nearly quit the sport.But over the course of her career, she'stackled head-on an eating disorder,which is all-too common in the sport. She spent time in a mental health facility to get a handle on her depression. She learned to cope with ADHD. And she came to understand her sexuality; Glenn identifies as pansexual, meaning she is attracted to people regardless of sex or gender."I've been through a lot," Glenn told The Associated Press. "It's taken many, many years to get to this point."Now, she has an Olympic gold medal from her Winter Games debut after helpingthe U.S. defend its titlein the team event."I stepped away from the sport. I've come back. At one point, I hated it. Whenever people would ask me, 'Oh, should my kids get into it?' I would be like, 'No, never,'" Glenn said. "But I've seen the people around me grow, and how the environment of figure skating has changed, and how we're trying to change it. And in doing so, we've created an environment I like to be in every day."'I hated skating when I quit'Liu is the only member of the U.S. women's team with any previous Olympics experience. But much like Glenn, she had come to loathe the sport by the time she finished sixth at the Beijing Games, so much sothat she quit entirely. She was 16 at the time."I really hated skating when I quit. Like, I really didn't like it," Liu told the AP. "I didn't care about competitions. I didn't care about places. I didn't care about skaters. I didn't care about my programs. I just wanted to, like, get away. I want nothing to do with that. I hated fame. I hated social media. I didn't like interviews. Like, I hated all of it."It took walking away for Liu to finally find herself.The same kid who'd get dropped off at the rink by her father in the morning and picked up at night, and who thirsted for friends her age while living and training alone in Colorado, began to explore: Liu climbed to the base camp of Mt. Everest, ticked off items on her ever-growing bucket list, and enrolled at UCLA to study, perhaps fittingly, psychology."I learned so much. Met so many new people," Liu said. "I had to exercise my free will and push myself in different ways."She begancontemplating a comebacktwo years ago, after she went skiing and experienced an adrenaline rush unlike anything she'd felt since hanging up the skates. Liu didn't know where it would lead — certainly not the first world title for an American since Kimmie Meissner in 2006, and definitely not another Winter Games — but she knew that she loved the feeling of skating again.Everything in Liu's life has meaning now, including the striking horizontal stripes in her hair. They're meant to represent the growth rings of a tree. There are three of them at present, and like a tree, Liu plans to add another ring each year."I used to feel like a puppet or a canvas that other people were using," she said. "Now I do things for myself."'They have no idea what you're actually like'Levito has always admired Russian skater Evgenia Medvedeva, perhaps themost dominant women's skaterof the mid-2000s, who was heavily favored to win gold at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games but wound up with the silver medal instead."She was just so pretty. I just wanted to have that angelic energy that I feel like she has," Levito told the AP. "Amber and Alysa have their distinct style, and she was more like me. My style is, I don't know, put together. I don't know how to word it."The ice princess image," Levito said, after a long pause, "which is silly to say."Mostly because it is just that — an image.Yes, there is a sense of purity surrounding Levito, whose mother, Chiara, immigrated to the U.S. from Milan three decades ago, and whose grandmother still lives inthe host city of the Winter Games. But pull her away from the TV cameras, photographers and the prying eyes of the world, and her sarcastic-bordering-on-vulgar sense of humor bubbles to the surface.At last month's U.S. Figure Skating Championships, Levito was asked her favorite quality in Liu, who was sitting beside her. "I want to say something but I won't," Levito said, before succumbing to a little prodding: "She keeps the hoes on their toes," she said."I think it's so funny," Levito said later, reflecting on that day. "The internet is like, 'Our Isabeau is not a baby anymore,' when they have no idea what you're actually like. I just don't want to say the wrong things in front of the media."So, Levito plays it safe. She wears a sort of mask for the public, projecting the image she thinks people want to see.Much like Glenn and Liu have people who can relate to them, there are a whole lot of people who can relate to that.___AP Winter Olympics:https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics

Glenn grew up in Plano, Texas. Her father, Richard, is a police sergeant and her mom, Cathlene, a fitness instructor. She's represented the U.S. internationallyfor nearly 15 years, which happens to be how old Lipinski was when she won Olympic gold.

It's hard to get more unabashedly American. Yet some critics nevertheless questioned her allegiances on the eve of the Milan Cortina Games, when Glenn answered a question about the political climate for the LGBTQ+ community under President Donald Trump.

"I hope I can use my platform and voice throughout these Games to help people stay strong during these hard times," she said. "A lot of people will say, 'You're just an athlete. Stick to your job. Shut up about politics.' But politics affect us all."

Glenn probably wouldn't have taken such a bold stance a decade ago, when she nearly quit the sport.

But over the course of her career, she'stackled head-on an eating disorder,which is all-too common in the sport. She spent time in a mental health facility to get a handle on her depression. She learned to cope with ADHD. And she came to understand her sexuality; Glenn identifies as pansexual, meaning she is attracted to people regardless of sex or gender.

"I've been through a lot," Glenn told The Associated Press. "It's taken many, many years to get to this point."

Now, she has an Olympic gold medal from her Winter Games debut after helpingthe U.S. defend its titlein the team event.

"I stepped away from the sport. I've come back. At one point, I hated it. Whenever people would ask me, 'Oh, should my kids get into it?' I would be like, 'No, never,'" Glenn said. "But I've seen the people around me grow, and how the environment of figure skating has changed, and how we're trying to change it. And in doing so, we've created an environment I like to be in every day."

'I hated skating when I quit'

Liu is the only member of the U.S. women's team with any previous Olympics experience. But much like Glenn, she had come to loathe the sport by the time she finished sixth at the Beijing Games, so much sothat she quit entirely. She was 16 at the time.

"I really hated skating when I quit. Like, I really didn't like it," Liu told the AP. "I didn't care about competitions. I didn't care about places. I didn't care about skaters. I didn't care about my programs. I just wanted to, like, get away. I want nothing to do with that. I hated fame. I hated social media. I didn't like interviews. Like, I hated all of it."

It took walking away for Liu to finally find herself.

The same kid who'd get dropped off at the rink by her father in the morning and picked up at night, and who thirsted for friends her age while living and training alone in Colorado, began to explore: Liu climbed to the base camp of Mt. Everest, ticked off items on her ever-growing bucket list, and enrolled at UCLA to study, perhaps fittingly, psychology.

"I learned so much. Met so many new people," Liu said. "I had to exercise my free will and push myself in different ways."

She begancontemplating a comebacktwo years ago, after she went skiing and experienced an adrenaline rush unlike anything she'd felt since hanging up the skates. Liu didn't know where it would lead — certainly not the first world title for an American since Kimmie Meissner in 2006, and definitely not another Winter Games — but she knew that she loved the feeling of skating again.

Everything in Liu's life has meaning now, including the striking horizontal stripes in her hair. They're meant to represent the growth rings of a tree. There are three of them at present, and like a tree, Liu plans to add another ring each year.

"I used to feel like a puppet or a canvas that other people were using," she said. "Now I do things for myself."

'They have no idea what you're actually like'

Levito has always admired Russian skater Evgenia Medvedeva, perhaps themost dominant women's skaterof the mid-2000s, who was heavily favored to win gold at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games but wound up with the silver medal instead.

"She was just so pretty. I just wanted to have that angelic energy that I feel like she has," Levito told the AP. "Amber and Alysa have their distinct style, and she was more like me. My style is, I don't know, put together. I don't know how to word it.

"The ice princess image," Levito said, after a long pause, "which is silly to say."

Mostly because it is just that — an image.

Yes, there is a sense of purity surrounding Levito, whose mother, Chiara, immigrated to the U.S. from Milan three decades ago, and whose grandmother still lives inthe host city of the Winter Games. But pull her away from the TV cameras, photographers and the prying eyes of the world, and her sarcastic-bordering-on-vulgar sense of humor bubbles to the surface.

At last month's U.S. Figure Skating Championships, Levito was asked her favorite quality in Liu, who was sitting beside her. "I want to say something but I won't," Levito said, before succumbing to a little prodding: "She keeps the hoes on their toes," she said.

"I think it's so funny," Levito said later, reflecting on that day. "The internet is like, 'Our Isabeau is not a baby anymore,' when they have no idea what you're actually like. I just don't want to say the wrong things in front of the media."

So, Levito plays it safe. She wears a sort of mask for the public, projecting the image she thinks people want to see.

Much like Glenn and Liu have people who can relate to them, there are a whole lot of people who can relate to that.

AP Winter Olympics:https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics

byAdministrator

in

February 16, 2026

Bold new US trio eyes Olympic figure skating gold while serving as role models for a new generation

MILAN (AP) — The trio of U.S. women targeting Olympic figure skating gold Tuesday night are not the dainty ice princesse...

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NFL free agency: The top 26 players scheduled to be available in 2026

On March 9, three weeks from today,NFLplayers on expiring contracts can begin negotiating with outside clubs – any are currently free to broach extensions with their current ones – and can officially start to join new organizations at 4 p.m. ET on March 11, the start of the 2026 league year.

However, a great deal is still likely to happen between now and then – and doubtless will.

Starting Feb. 17, the two-week window for clubs to apply a franchise or transition tag to one of their pending free agents, thus severely restricting that player's ability to leave, opens. Countless others will have their contracts terminated before March 11 as overbudget teams come into compliance with the 2026 salary cap prior to the start of free agency.

Elsewhere,Atlanta FalconsQBKirk Cousins, for example, renegotiated his contract in January, lowering his 2026 base salary to $2.1 million but obtaining a clause that would guarantee his new $67.9 million income in 2027 on March 13 – meaning he'll almost certainly be going free and gauging his value anew, though that wouldn't necessarily preclude a return to Atlanta. Andwhither Tua Tagovailoa? And/orKyler Murray? The quarterback market could be intriguing, if not yet fully informed and certainly unlikely to present a marquee veteran option.

Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.

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Best images of the 2025 NFL season

Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18)makes a catch for a touchdownagainst the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.

As for unforeseen trades and releases? Recent history tells us those will occur, too, and further shake up the league's landscape.

But, for now, I've compiled a list of the top 26 NFL free agents – one that's bound to change and will be adjusted accordingly as events warrant – heading into the 2026 offseason:

1. WR George Pickens

He's coming off a career year (93 catches for 1,429 yards and 9 TDs, all personal bests) and turns 25 next month − all good reasons for theDallas Cowboystouse the franchise tag on Pickens, whether they plan to keep him (he and CeeDee Lamb would form an awesome but expensive wideout duo) or trade him. A good fit in Dallas last season, Pickens isn't for everyone − and might still have to prove he's a clear-cut No. 1 wideout. But his 2025 effort strongly suggested his production and potential are quickly coming into alignment.

2. DE Trey Hendrickson

After registering 35 sacks between the 2023 and '24 seasons, including a league-leading 17½ in the latter campaign, the 31-year-old was limited to seven games by injuries last year − that in the wake of acontentious offseason with the Cincinnati Bengals. It's worth wondering now if Cincy simply lets Hendrickson walk or tries a tag-and-trade gambit, but a fresh start seems like the best outcome. Regardless, his services should be in high demand.

3. C Tyler Linderbaum

You'd think theBaltimore Ravenswill find a way to retain a 25-year-old three-time Pro Bowler. They may have to address QB Lamar Jackson's contract first − he currently carries a cap charge of $74.5 million in 2026and'27 − which means a franchise tag could be a strong possibility if theRavensare to keep Linderbaum off the market before granting him an extension. But if he goes free, an immediate bidding war will doubtless commence.

4. OLB Jaelan Phillips

It's hard to come by untethered edge defenders theoretically entering their prime. But Phillips, 26, could be one of the belles of the FA ball after being acquired by the Philadelphia Eagles at last year's trade deadline. He finished the season with five sacks and 63 quarterback pressures, per Next Gen Stats. More important, he appeared in 17 regular-season games for the first time since 2022 after injuries ruined his following two seasons. Strong against the pass and run, the 6-5, 266-pounder should find a very robust market ... presuming he gets there.

5. QB Daniel Jones

A torn Achilles last December cut short what had been his best season statistically (238.5 passing yards per game, 100.2 QB rating) to that point. The QB trend du jour that may be forming in the NFL could be finding a reclamation project who won't necessarily eat up a massive chunk of the salary cap − and Jones, 28,can thank Sam DarnoldandBaker Mayfield for their ongoingheroics. Hard to believe theIndianapolis Coltswill allow Jones to gauge his worth with the rest of the league, though ... especially when his previous team, theMinnesota Vikings, could suddenly become very interested in swooping in if he's not secured soon.

NFL power rankings after Super Bowl 60:How far down did Seahawks push Patriots?

6. OLB Odafe Oweh

He has 17½ sacks and 98 pressures as a part-time starter over the past two seasons, which were split between the Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers. Heady numbers for a 27-year-old who should be ready for a bigger role ... and certainly a larger paycheck.

7. QB Malik Willis

He could be this year's version of Justin Fields − a quarterback with intriguing skills but limited experience who can nevertheless capitalize financially given the high demand but low supply at his incomparably critical position. Willis, 26, has far fewer NFL reps than Fields but really impressed while filling in as a spot starter for theGreen Bay Packersthe past two seasons, completing nearly 80% of his passes while throwing six TDs and zero INTs. In addition to a 134.6 passer rating, Willis can also move like a tank. Keep an eye on theMiami Dolphins, who just plucked their new GM (Jon-Eric Sullivan) and coach (Jeff Hafley) from the Pack, as an interested buyer.

8. WR/KR Rashid Shaheed

The big-play ability he flashed for years with the New Orleans Saints translated beautifully − and critically − when the Seattle Seahawks obtained him last November. Shaheed, 27, seemed like the final piece for to the 'Hawks' championship puzzle and delivered huge catches and returns in pivotal games down the stretch and in the postseason. However it should be captivating to see what Shaheed can fetch given he's never been a No. 1 receiver nor has averaged 600 receiving yards during his four-year career. Still, his return ability − at a time when the kickoff is becoming an increasingly important component of the game − could really drive up his price tag.

9. TE Kyle Pitts

The No. 4 overall pick in 2021 − the highest-drafted tight end ever − Pitts, 25, never seemed to fully reach his potential with the Atlanta Falcons, which isn't completely an indictment of him. But he was a second-team All-Pro in 2025 and did just put together his best season since he was a rookie, catching a career-high 88 passes and five TDs. Pitts could really take off in an offense that truly leverages his estimable abilities ... and maybe even has the foresight to feature him in the red zone.

10. RB Breece Hall

Though the New York Jets seemingly purged much of their talent at last year's trade deadline, they hung on to their 24-year-old back. And why not? Hall has averaged 1,260 yards from scrimmage and nearly seven TDs during his four seasons − and for the lowly NYJ. Explosive and an excellent receiver, Hall is the best runner on the market ... if he actually reaches it.

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11. WR Alec Pierce

Similar to Shaheed, he could be an elite No. 2 receiver in the right system. Unlike Shaheed, he doesn't bring any special teams value. However Pierce, 25, has led the league in yards per reception each of the past two seasons (21.8 ypc over the duration) and is coming off a breakout year with 47 grabs for 1,003 yards. He should get paid nicely in what's a fairly thin crop of free agents.

12. S Coby Bryant

After struggling as a corner earlier in his Seattle career, he's flourished as a safety the past two seasons − and the 26-year-old should get a nice bump given the league's other teams always look to raid the most recent Super Bowl champions.

13. CB Jaylen Watson

He's big (6-2, 197), young (27), still experienced (29 starts) and playoff tested. Watson is coming off his best season but is probably a luxury for the capped-out Kansas City Chiefs.

14. LB Devin Lloyd

A first-rounder of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, he blossomed into a Pro Bowler last season as the team blossomed around him. If the Jags don't pony up to keep their 27-year-old defensive quarterback, someone will.

15. S Bryan Cook

He's emerged as a key component of Steve Spagnuolo's K.C. D in recent years. A steady, reliable player, Cook, 26, should be a stabilizing presence if not one who's going to make a ton of splash plays.

16. LT Rasheed Walker

He's been a solid, if unspectacular, starter for the Packers since 2023. But serviceable, 26-year-old left tackles don't grow on trees.

17. RB Kenneth Walker III

The 25-year-old Super Bowl MVP will get a hefty raise in Seattle or elsewhere. But Walker is not the second coming of Saquon Barkley, isn't as good an every-down player as Hall and has spent most of his career in a platoon. The guess here is that Walker won't come close to resetting the compensation scale at a position that generally doesn't command top dollar.

New England Patriots' safety #31 Craig Woodson rushes Seattle Seahawks' running back #09 Kenneth Walker III during Super Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on Feb. 8, 2026.

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Kenneth Walker III and the Seahawks defeat the Patriots in Super Bowl

New England Patriots' safety #31 Craig Woodson rushes Seattle Seahawks' running back #09 Kenneth Walker III duringSuper Bowl LXbetween the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on Feb. 8, 2026.

18. WR Jauan Jennings

A 6-3, 212-pounder, the 28-year-old caught 132 balls (15 for TDs) over the past two seasons for the San Francisco 49ers. Jennings' roots as a quarterback also make him quite a threat on trick plays. He's also the proverbial dog that some locker rooms covet ... and others won't.

19. WR Mike Evans

He'll be 33 by Week 1 and is coming off the worst of his 12 NFL seasons. But 6-5 and 231 pounds don't fade like speed does, and a healthy Evans should be a dangerous offensive weapon and top-tier leader again in 2026 − whether it's for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers or someone else.

20. OLB Khalil Mack

He'll be 35 by next week and is coming off (perhaps) the worst of his 12 NFL seasons. But 6-3 and 269 pounds worth of power don't fade like an agile pass rusher might, and a healthy Mack should be a dangerous defensive weapon and top-tier leader again in 2026 − whether it's for the Chargers or someone else.

21. CB Nahshon Wright

Though he's already 27, he's hardly a finished product. He's also a 6-4, 199-pound corner who led the NFL with eight takeaways (5 INTs, 3 fumble recoveries) after becoming a surprise starter (and surprise first-time Pro Bowler) for the Chicago Bears. The upside and production spike are going to make Wright rich.

22. WR Romeo Doubs

He's 25 with good size (6-2, 204) and has averaged roughly 50 receptions and 600 yards during four years with the Pack, who have widely dispersed their target share in the post-Davante Adams era. Doubs could be far more impactful as a 1A or second option elsewhere.

23. QB Aaron Rodgers

Last season was his best since 2021, his most recent MVP effort. Hard to imagine the 42-year-old legend playing anywhere besides the Pittsburgh Steelers, who just hired Mike McCarthy, formerly Rodgers' coach in Green Bay. But, again, monitor the Vikings as a possible dark horse.

24. S Kamren Curl

The kind of versatile DB any defense wants, able to play deep, in the box or in the slot. Still only 26, Curl already has 86 NFL starts split between Washington and the Los Angeles Rams.

25. DE Joey Bosa

He will be 31 this season and has a checkered injury history. But Bosa's 2025 campaign with the Buffalo Bills was his best since 2021. He had five sacks and 43 pressures in 15 games and led the league with five forced fumbles. He'd be wise to find a home where his snaps can be maximized but limited.

26. WR Wan'dale Robinson

He may only be 5-8 and 185 pounds, but the 25-year-old was targeted 140 times each of the past two years with the New York Giants − and posted his first 1,000-yard season in 2025. Robinson isn't a No. 1 receiver, either − doesn't mean he won't heavily impact his next offense.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:NFL free agency in 2026 highlighted by these 26 players − for now

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February 16, 2026

NFL free agency: The top 26 players scheduled to be available in 2026

On March 9, three weeks from today,NFLplayers on expiring contracts can begin negotiating with outside clubs – any are c...

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Where Is Shandi Sullivan from “America's Next Top Model” Now? What to Know About Her Life 20 Years After the Show

Frazer Harrison/Getty ; Netflix

NEED TO KNOW

• Shandi Sullivan came in third on cycle 2 of America's Next Top Model

• She later left modeling and pursued a career as a jewelry store owner and podcast host

• During the 2026 Netflix docuseries Reality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model, Sullivan claimed she was sexually assaulted on-camera

Shandi Sullivanis reflecting on her time in the hit competition seriesAmerica's Next Top Model.

The Walgreens clerk-turned-aspiring model finished third in the show's second cycle. Though Sullivan — who uses both she/her and they/them pronouns — impressed judgesTyra Banks,Janice Dickinson,Nigel Barkerand J. Alexander with their dramatic makeover and high-fashion potential, their run became most remembered for a highly publicized incident during an overseas trip to Milan, Italy.

In the 2026NetflixdocuseriesReality Check: Inside America's Next Top Model, Sullivan claimed thatAmerica's Next Top Modelproduction shaped a narrative around her cheating on her boyfriend with a Vespa driver. But the former model described their encounter as sexual assault.

"I remember him on top of me," Sullivan told filmmakers, noting that she was "hammered" at the time. "I was blacked out. No one did anything to stop it. And it all got filmed, all of it."

Executive producer Ken Mok said in the docuseries that editors scaled back that scene "significantly," but that it "was, for good or bad, one of the most memorable moments inTop Model."

So, where is Shandi Sullivan now? Here's everything to know about the formerAmerica's Next Top Modelcontestant's life today.

Sullivan was on season 2 ofAmerica's Next Top Model

Frazer Harrison/Getty

When season 2 — also called "cycles" inAmerica's Next Top Model— aired in 2004, Sullivan instantly became a fan favorite. The Kansas City, Mo., native went from working at Walgreens to being photographed in some of the most iconic images on the show — including their pink-frocked Italian colosseum portrait shot for a mock eyewear campaign.

The image was so iconic that New York City artists Tanner Abel and Nicholas Needham recreated it with Sullivan on the 20th anniversary of its TV airing. Shandi's Italian colosseum photo from 2004 was undoubtedly her superstar moment of the cycle and, personally, may be my favorite photo inTop Modelhistory," Abel toldEntertainment Weeklyin March 2024.

Though Sullivan said inReality Checkthat she initially wanted to winAmerica's Next Top Model, she "didn't care" after what happened in Milan.

She claimed production framed her alleged sexual assault as a cheating storyline

Nancy Kaszerman/ZUMAPRESS.com via Alamy

In the Netflix docuseries, Sullivan recounted what happened between her and the Vespa driver in Milan. After a long day of "go-sees," one of the cast members invited the drivers over for dinner and drinks. The former model said they were "pretty drunk" after the group entered the hot tub.

"I was hammered," they said onReality Check. They went on to claim, "I think I had two bottles of wine by myself. I just remember, like, little bits and pieces. He threw me in the shower and then just sitting in the shower. And then we're in the bed. I was blacked out for a lot of it. I didn't even feel sex happening. I just knew it was happening. And then I passed out."

Footage of the following morning showed Sullivan hysterical and saying, "I just want to die." She was also filmed telling her boyfriend, Eric, about what happened and asking the driver if he had any sexually transmitted diseases. In the docuseries, Sullivan said that two camera operators later apologized for filming their phone call with Eric.

Sullivan toldReality Checkthat she believes production should have stopped the incident. "I think after getting out of the hot tub, I think they should have f---ing been like, 'Alright, this has gone too far. We get it. We gotta pull her out of this,' " she said.

The former model has repeated that sentiment in the past. "If I would've seen me out with that dude in [public], I would've been like, 'Okay, grab [her], you're way too drunk to even know what's going on,' Sullivan toldEntertainment Weeklyin March 2023.

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InReality Check, Mok andJay Manuelcited the documentary-style nature of the show as a reason for filming the incident.

Banks said in the docuseries that she was not a part of production, and a spokesperson for the supermodel toldEntertainment Weeklythat she "played no role in the events that occurred this night. Everyone, including production, was surprised to find out what had transpired."

Sullivan appeared on Banks' talk show in 2005

Kevin Winter/Getty

AfterAmerica's Next Top Model, Sullivan toldReality Checkthat they went back to working at Walgreens and "felt really broken."

Banks later invited her and other former contestants toThe Tyra Banks Showfor a reunion a year later. Though she claims she asked Banks off-camera not to play the clip from the Milan incident, since she'd never seen it, she alleges that the supermodel aired it in front of her anyway.

Banks' spokesperson toldEntertainment Weeklythat she denied that she deliberately aired the clip as it "goes against her beliefs."

Sullivan also said in the docuseries that she and Eric continued to date after the show but eventually broke up due to the negative attention she gained from being on the show.

"I'd be walking with Eric down the street and somebody would recognize me and call me a slut to my face," Sullivan said onReality Check. "It made me hate myself."

She stopped modeling in 2014

SBM / PictureLux via Alamy

When Sullivan recreated their Italian colosseum portrait in 2024, it was their first professional shoot in 10 years.

"I wanted to nod to this image to showcase that Shandi still has that magic and beauty within her no matter how much time has passed or what her current career is, while also taking the opportunity to create a fresh 2024 interpretation of her through my eyes," Abel toldEntertainment Weeklyat the time.

Where is Sullivan now?

In 2023,Entertainment Weeklyreported that Sullivan was running a Brooklyn-based jewelry business called Dream Meow Corner. They wrote in a December 2023Instagrampost that they also make "pet portraits, earrings, blobs, candle holders ... whatever I am interested in at the moment."

The formerAmerica's Next Top Modelcontestant also launched the podcastUrn Fulla Popcornin September 2024, where she discusses various horror films. In anInstagrampost announcing the new project, she wrote that she'd be co-hosting the show with Timmy Williams ofThe Whitest Kids U'Know.

Sullivan addressed the release of theReality Checkdocuseries in a January 2026Instagrampost, writing viewers will see if those in charge ofAmerica's Next Top Model"finally take responsibility for the part they played."

They continued, "Because if you truly are placing the blame on the fans for continuing to abuse, manipulate, and extort the contestants on the show that bares your name; I don't think they ever will and that's a damn shame."

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or go torainn.org.

Read the original article onPeople

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February 16, 2026

Where Is Shandi Sullivan from “America's Next Top Model” Now? What to Know About Her Life 20 Years After the Show

Frazer Harrison/Getty ; Netflix NEED TO KNOW Shandi Sullivan came in third on cycle 2 of America's Next...

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Youth movement pays off for USA women's hockey. These kids are good

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO — Players come, players go and, yet, the result remains the same.

USA women's hockeyhas won gold or silver at every world championships since they began in 1990. They've won gold or silver at all but oneOlympicssince women's hockey made its debut in 1998.

The list of players who've worn the U.S. jersey is a who's who of the game: Cammi Granatto, Angela Ruggiero, Jenny Potter, Julie Chu, Karyn Bye-Dietz, Natalie Darwitz, Hilary Knight, Kendall Coyne Schofield — you get the idea.

While nothing is said outright, every young player knows that history. And has no interest in being part of the team that screws it up.

"There is definitely some pressure, of course, because we care and we want to keep that standard alive and be playing great USA hockey," said Caroline Harvey, who despite still being a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is playing in her second Olympics.

Ann-Renee Desbiens (35) of Canada gives up a goal to Caroline Harvey (not pictured) of the United States in women's ice hockey group a play during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena.

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Rival powers battle as USA faces Canada at Winter Games

Ann-Renee Desbiens (35) of Canada gives up a goal to Caroline Harvey (not pictured) of the United States in women's ice hockey group a play during theMilano Cortina 2026Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena.

"But it's more enjoyable than anything because it's just so exciting," Harvey said. "You're playing with the best of the best. Definitely nerves at times, but good nerves, and trying to channel that into good things."

With Hilary Knight already saying these Olympics, her fifth, are her last and Coyne Schofield and four other players 30 or older, Milano Cortina is something of a changing of the guard for the U.S. women.

Of the 23-person team, 12 are newcomers and four made their Olympic debut in Beijing. Seven are still in college and nine are 23 or younger. Of the 10 Americans who are on the list of scoring leaders through the first five games at the Olympics, seven are under 25.

That includes Harvey, who leads all scorers with nine points.

"It's fun to see a younger version of yourself in them and kind of remind you where you were when you were their age," Coyne Schofield said. "But also just taking a step back and realizing how incredible they are. They're leaders in their own way. They (are) young in age only. They've won. They've scored big goals. They've carried a team on their back. They've won national championships. They've done it all.

"Whether it's the Olympic games or not, they've pretty much done it all."

The arrival of the next generation doesn't mean there won't still be room for the veterans in the next Olympic cycle. But there is a danger in sticking with what's worked and expecting that will continue for another four years. (Cough, Canada, cough.)

By integrating the young Americans into the U.S. team while players like Knight, Coyne Schofield and Alex Carpenter are still around and in their prime, it assures the team of sustained success.

"When I first was a part of the national team, I was like, 'Well, this is cool. This is an honor (to be) amongst the best.' But there's a lot more to it than that. It's how you represent yourself and you represent your country, on and off the ice, and how you carry yourself. What you're doing to better yourself and your teammates," said Laila Edwards, who is an Olympic rookie but is already poised to be one of the next generation's big stars.

"I just made sure to take in something every day, whether that was from my teammates, the captains, the coaches," Edwards added. "I think that's what the U.S. is about. We're never content with where we're at. We're always wanting to get better."

The approach is working.

The Americans beat archrival Canada in overtime last April to win the title at the world championships. Since then, the U.S. has outscored Canada by a whopping 29-7, including a 5-0 thrashing in the preliminary round in Milano Cortina.

The Americans are undefeated going into the semifinals, and their plus-25 goal differential is the best of the four teams left.

"It's incredible where they're going to take the sport," Knight said. "They're already so good … and this is just scratching the surface of what their capabilities are."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:USA women's hockey team in good hands with next generation

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February 16, 2026

Youth movement pays off for USA women's hockey. These kids are good

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO — Players come, players go and, yet, the result remains the same. USA women's hockey...

Read More