Jake Adicoff, the first openly gay American man to win Winter Paralympic gold, adds to his medal haul.

Jake Adicoff, the first openly gay American male Winter Paralympic champion, received no bow at the Milan Cortina Games this time.

Instead, teammate Oksana Masters knocked him to the snow after they secured the United States’ win in the para‑cross‑country mixed relay on Saturday.

“It started as a hug, then she shifted her weight, and suddenly I was on the ground,” Adicoff said. “She’s intense, full of passion. She brings that energy to the course and to the celebrations afterward.”

The maneuver marked Masters’ record‑extending 23rd Paralympic medal, making her the most decorated American Winter Paralympian. Also on the U.S. squad were Joshua Sweeney and Sydney Peterson.

“I’m a very passionate, aggressive person, and I was just so excited. I was thrilled for Jake, because I know he’s chasing a clean sweep in cross‑country skiing,” Masters said. “Being able to help him felt great; he’s on his way to fulfilling his goals.”

Adicoff, who is vision‑impaired, captured his first individual Paralympic gold in the sprint classic on Tuesday, becoming the first openly gay American male athlete to win gold at the Winter Games, according to Team USA. He added a second victory in the interval‑start classic on Wednesday.

“The relay is fun because you actually see your teammates,” he noted. “That’s my favorite part of the day—plus getting tackled by Oksana at the finish.”

After his wins, Adicoff had been acknowledging fans, families and friends with a bow. He bowed as he crossed the line after his second triumph and again during the podium ceremony. Spectators wore hats bearing his name.

“I try to think of something new each time,” he said. “You have to keep it fresh, keep the ideas coming. If anyone has suggestions, let me know.”

Adicoff will have another chance to celebrate on Sunday when he lines up for the 20‑kilometre interval‑start free race, his final event at Milan Cortina.

He is believed to be one of five openly gay athletes representing the United States at the Games. He was not openly gay during his previous Paralympic appearances.

Adicoff also helped the U.S. win the mixed relay at the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympics after returning from retirement following the 2018 Pyeongchang Games, where he earned a silver in the 10 km classic. He added two silver medals in Beijing four years later.

He has no vision in his right eye and limited sight in his left after contracting chicken‑pox in utero. Raised in Sun Valley, Idaho, he began Alpine skiing at age five. His parents later shifted him to cross‑country skiing when they realized Alpine would be difficult for him.

Masters secured her fourth gold medal at Milan Cortina, the most of any athlete so far, bringing her combined Winter and Summer Paralympic total to 23 medals.