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The American-Spanish couple had something professional to
celebrate - together, for a change - as Hubbell and Zachary
Donohue took the top spot for the United States in the team
event's rhythm dance at the Beijing Winter Games on Friday.
"For me they were by far the cleanest; it was a very good
performance," Diaz told Reuters on Saturday after a practice
session with dancing partner, Olivia Smart, ahead of their own
competition next week.
"I was very proud of her," he said. Diaz and Smart, who
represent Spain, are not competing in the team event.
"This was a particularly wonderful way to begin the Games not
only with a season's best score but ... especially special for
me with my fiancé in the stands because usually we're focused on
our events," Hubbell said on Friday.
Donohue, an ex-boyfriend of Hubbell's, chimed in: "I love having
her fiancé as my support, it's amazing."
Couples since the 2014/15 season and competing against each
other since they were teens, Hubbell and Diaz have been able to
share meals together - albeit through plexiglass - at the
athlete's village, the Spaniard said.
At home, the rivalry on ice is not an issue.
"It's very natural, it's never been a problem," he said. "She's
always been at the top and we're fighting to get to the top so
it's never been a direct competition," he said, standing next to
Smart.
"I've been interested to see what would happen if we switched
places (at the top). I'm not sure how that would be in the
house," he added, laughing.
"We help (each other) a lot. Any time that I have a question or
I have doubts or a problem she's always giving her female
perspective and vice versa."
The two are due to be married near Barcelona in June 2023.
(Editing by Jacqueline Wong)
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