Britain, the United States, Italy and Sweden secured spots in the semifinals of the mixed doubles curling competition at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games on Sunday.
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – Britain topped the standings with eight wins and one loss, while Sweden claimed the final semifinal spot by edging Canada 7-6.
« It was a very important game, » Sweden’s Rasmus Wrana said. « After losing three games in a row, we knew that from then on we had to win all our matches. We’ve had that feeling for a few games now, and apparently that’s when we play our best. »
« I like the sound of Rasmus sweeping – then you know it’s close, » added his younger sister and teammate, Isabella Wrana.
The United States advanced as the second-place finisher after defeating Estonia 5-3. U.S. curler Korey Dropkin said the result fulfilled a lifelong dream.
« It’s a dream come true. Ten-year-old Korey dreamed of this moment for a long time, » the 30-year-old Dropkin said. « I get a little emotional because I’m living my dream and trying to have fun while doing it, making sure I make the most of it. No matter whether it ends in a win or a loss, it’s about enjoying our time out there and living it up, because I don’t know if I’ll be back. »
Switzerland ranks fifth with four wins and four losses, while Canada, South Korea and Norway share sixth place with three wins and five losses each. The Czech Republic and Estonia are tied for ninth place at two wins and six losses.
The final round-robin matches will be played on Monday before the semifinals pitting Britain against Sweden and the United States against Italy. ■
by Xinhua
