Team GB Women's Curling Exits Early After USA's Dramatic Victory
Team GB's women's curling team has been eliminated from medal contention at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina, following a stunning extra-end victory by the United States over Switzerland in the final round robin game. The British squad, led by skip Sophie Jackson, had kept their hopes alive with a 7-4 win against Italy earlier on Thursday, but their fate hinged on other results to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Nail-Biting Finish Seals GB's Fate
In a tense and closely contested match, the USA faced Switzerland in a crucial encounter that would determine the semi-final lineup. The Swiss team scored three points in the 10th end to tie the game at 6-6, forcing an extra end. Despite a messy start in the additional frame, American skip Tabitha Peterson delivered a superb final throw with the hammer, edging her stone closer to the button than Switzerland's two stones in the house by mere millimetres.
This remarkable comeback victory for the USA not only secured their progression but also condemned Great Britain to an early exit from the tournament. The British team had previously defeated the USA 8-7 in the round robin stage, thanks to a stunning shot from Rebecca Morrison that kept their semi-final hopes alive. However, with the USA's win over Switzerland, GB's chances were dashed, mirroring the earlier disappointment of the British men's rink, who also failed to advance.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
This early exit marks a significant setback for Team GB, who won the gold medal in women's curling at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics under skip Eve Muirhead. The loss highlights the competitive nature of the sport and the fine margins that can determine success or failure in Olympic curling. As the tournament continues, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the remaining teams fare in the semi-finals and beyond.
For now, Team GB's women's curling team must reflect on their performance and look ahead to future competitions, while the USA celebrates a hard-fought victory that keeps their medal dreams alive. More updates on the Olympic curling events are expected to follow as the competition progresses.
