MILAN, 13 February 2026 – As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games reach their peak, the name Steven Bradbury is once again echoing through the halls of Olympic history. While Australia celebrates fresh success on the snow, the man who defined the “underdog” spirit remains a central figure in the national sporting consciousness, recently making headlines for both his legacy and his characteristic Aussie wit.
Latest Updates: Bradbury at Milano Cortina 2026
Even 24 years after his historic win in Salt Lake City, Bradbury continues to influence the Winter Games. This week, Bradbury was seen celebrating the success of Dutch speed skating star Jutta Leerdam, who claimed gold in Italy. In a viral moment three days ago, Bradbury took a “cheeky clip” at Leerdam’s fiancé, celebrity boxer Jake Paul, who was in the crowd supporting her. The light-hearted exchange has been a highlight for fans following the social side of the Games.
Back on the competitive front, Bradbury’s legacy was invoked yesterday as Australian moguls skier Cooper Woods delivered a stunning performance to win gold. Commentators and fans alike have drawn parallels between Woods’ victory and Bradbury’s 2002 run, noting that Australia’s winter success often stems from the “last man standing” resilience that Bradbury pioneered.
Fans in Australia will also have the opportunity to meet the legend soon. Bradbury is scheduled for a special meet-and-greet activation on Saturday, 21 February 2026, at 3:00 pm, where he will reflect on his four-Olympic career and the evolution of Australian winter sports.
The Career of Steven Bradbury
Steven Bradbury’s journey to becoming a household name was marked by extreme highs and life-threatening lows. Long before the 2002 “pile-up,” Bradbury was a world-class athlete who helped secure Australia’s first-ever Winter Olympic medal in 1994. His career was nearly ended twice by horrific injuries: once in 1994 when a skate blade sliced his thigh, requiring 111 stitches, and again in 2000 when he fractured his neck in a training accident.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven John Bradbury |
| Date of Birth | 14 October 1973 |
| Birthplace | Camden, NSW, Australia |
| Olympic Games Attended | 1992, 1994, 1998, 2002 |
| Primary Discipline | Short Track Speed Skating |
| Major Achievement | First Southern Hemisphere Winter Olympic Gold (2002) |
The “Doing a Bradbury” Legacy
The phrase “Doing a Bradbury” has entered the Australian lexicon to describe an unexpected or unlikely victory. While often viewed as a stroke of luck, Bradbury himself maintains it was a tactical masterstroke. Knowing he could not match the raw speed of younger rivals like Apolo Anton Ohno, Bradbury stayed at the back of the pack, anticipating the high probability of a collision in the frantic 1,000m final. When the leaders tangled and fell on the final corner, Bradbury skated through the debris to claim gold.
Today, that victory is viewed not just as a fluke, but as a reward for over a decade of perseverance through injuries that would have forced most athletes into retirement. As of February 2026, he remains one of Australia’s most sought-after motivational speakers, using his story to illustrate the importance of “being in the race” to the very end.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Doing a Bradbury” mean?
It is an Australian slang term meaning to achieve success or win a contest unexpectedly, often because the front-runners or favourites have encountered misfortune or made mistakes.
How many Olympic medals did Steven Bradbury win?
Bradbury won two Olympic medals: a Bronze in the 5,000m relay at the 1994 Lillehammer Games and a Gold in the 1,000m individual event at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games.
Is Steven Bradbury still involved in the Winter Olympics?
Yes, Bradbury remains a prominent ambassador for Australian winter sports. During the current Milano Cortina 2026 Games, he has been active in media commentary and promotional events, continuing to support the next generation of Australian Olympians.