Olympic Ice Dancers Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker Announce Valentine's Day Engagement in Milan
In a heartwarming turn of events, Olympic ice dancers Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker have announced their engagement, moving from fierce competitors on the ice to lifelong partners. The couple shared the joyous news on February 14, 2026, after Jean Luc Baker proposed in the romantic city of Milan, Italy.
From Rivalry to Romance: A Skating Love Story
For years, Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker were known as prominent figures in the world of ice dance, often competing against each other at top-tier international events. Olivia Smart, who represents Spain in ice dance, had just completed her competition in Milan with her partner Tim Dieck, where they secured a ninth-place finish. Although there was no medal on this occasion, a far more significant moment awaited her off the rink.
Later that same day, Jean Luc Baker, who previously skated for the United States with partner Kaitlin Hawayek at major competitions including the Winter Olympics, got down on one knee and proposed. Olivia Smart enthusiastically said yes, marking a beautiful culmination of their behind-the-scenes bond that had quietly developed over the years.
The Proposal: A Private Moment in the Rain
Jean Luc Baker captured the proposal in a touching video posted on Instagram, titled "It's always been you." The video reveals intimate moments leading up to the engagement, including clips of him holding the ring while watching Olivia Smart compete from the stands. The scene then transitions to the streets of Milan, where, under an umbrella with light rain falling around them, he knelt down to propose.
Olivia Smart initially appeared shocked but quickly responded with a resounding "Yes," followed by a heartfelt hug and kiss. The couple also shared photos of the exact moment on social media, with Olivia Smart simply captioning hers with the date, "14.02.26," to commemorate the special day.
Overwhelming Support from the Skating Community
The announcement was met with an outpouring of love and congratulations from friends, fans, and fellow skaters on Instagram. Comments flooded in, with one fan writing, "That was so precious. Congratulations," and another exclaiming, "Omg congratulations!! So happy for you." This support highlights the close-knit nature of the ice dance community and the widespread admiration for the couple.
Despite the absence of a big stage, spotlight, or medals, this Valentine's Day proposal has become one of the most memorable moments in their skating careers. After years of standing on opposite sides of the rink, Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker are now embarking on a new journey together as partners for life.
Looking Ahead: A Future Beyond the Ice
This engagement not only celebrates their personal happiness but also symbolizes a beautiful transition from professional rivalry to personal unity. As they step into this new chapter, fans and the skating world eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this talented duo, both on and off the ice.
