Miho Takagi Secures Historic 10th Olympic Medal as Japan Dominates Women’s Team Pursuit

Milan, Italy – Japan’s Miho Takagi etched her name further into Olympic history on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, securing her 10th Olympic medal with a bronze-winning performance in the women’s team pursuit at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. The victory also marked Japan’s third consecutive Olympic medal in the event and propelled the nation to a record-breaking 19 medals overall at the Games, surpassing their previous best of 19 medals set at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

A Record-Breaking Achievement for Takagi

Takagi, alongside teammates Ayano Sato and Hana Noake, delivered a commanding performance against the United States in the bronze medal match, finishing in a time of 2 minutes and 58.50 seconds. The Japan Times reports that this latest medal elevates Takagi to the status of the most decorated female Japanese Olympic athlete.

“Having seen the color of the medal, I felt frustrated. I’m determined not to let things finish like this in future races,” Takagi said after winning bronze in the women’s 1,000 meters on February 10, according to The Yomiuri Shimbun.

Japan’s Dominance in Team Pursuit

The Japanese team consistently demonstrated their strength throughout the competition, leading from start to finish against the U.S. In the bronze medal skate. Canada claimed the gold medal, defeating the Netherlands in the final. NHK World highlights the significance of this achievement as Japan’s third straight Olympic medal in the women’s team pursuit.

Takagi’s Journey to Olympic Glory

Miho Takagi’s Olympic journey began at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, where she boldly declared her intention to compete in all speed skating events. The Yomiuri Shimbun notes that her coach, Shunichi Higashide, was surprised by her ambition, but it fueled her relentless training and dedication. Prior to the team pursuit win, Takagi had already secured a bronze medal in the women’s 1,000 meters on February 10, marking her eighth Olympic medal overall. Olympics.com provides a comprehensive profile of the athlete and her accomplishments.

Looking Ahead

With 19 medals secured at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Japan has set a new benchmark for its performance on the world stage. Miho Takagi’s continued success serves as an inspiration, and her determination to improve ensures she will remain a formidable force in future competitions.