The World Figure Skating Championships kick off Wednesday and the United States has a lot on the line. Reigning men's singles champion Ilia Malinin will look to defend his title in Boston, while women's singles standout Amber Glenn is turning in the best season of her career.

Amber Glenn jumps like a pole-vaulter, collects lightsabers, is pansexual and, at 25, has blossomed at an age when many peers have retired.

After a practice day Tuesday, competition will open Wednesday and run through Saturday, with medals handed out in men’s and women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance.