At the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, 232 athletes proudly represent Team USA. Among them is Andrew Torgashev, a figure skater gaining prominence for his unique nickname: “The Pizza King.”
Andrew Torgashev: A Rising Star
As one of only three American competitors in the figure skating event, Torgashev is making headlines. His nickname derives from an extraordinary personal challenge in which he consumed pizza for 53 consecutive days.
The Pizza Diet and Its Impact
Torgashev started his unconventional diet in 2022. He claims it helped him lose weight and regain his quad toeloop, a challenging jump in figure skating. He explained, “My relationship with pizza started in 2022. I ended up losing weight and getting my quad toeloop back during this time.”
- Nickname: The Pizza King
- Pizza Diet Duration: 53 days
- Physique Improvement: Weight loss and regained quad toeloop
Performance at the Olympics
On February 10, during the men’s short program, Torgashev showcased his skills, achieving a score of 88.94. This placed him in second position as the event approached its midpoint. Additionally, he contributed to Team USA’s victory by winning a gold medal in the earlier team event.
Social Media and Public Persona
Embracing his nickname, Torgashev humorously refers to himself on social media as the “Team USA Figure Skating Pizza Ambassador.” This persona endears him to fans and adds to his growing popularity.
Favorite Pizza Toppings
When asked about his favorite pizza, Torgashev expressed a preference for barbecue chicken topped with honey and prosciutto, emphasizing his love for the dish.
As the competition progresses, Andrew Torgashev continues to inspire fans both on and off the ice at the 2026 Winter Olympics, living up to his title as “The Pizza King.”
