Olympic figure skater Michelle Kwan welcomes first child, a daughter named Kalista

Michelle Kwan is a mom. 

The ice skater, 41, welcomed her first child into the world on Wednesday. 

She announced the birth via Instagram. She posted a picture of her little one bundled up in a blanket with a beanie on her head.  

Kwan didn’t just post a picture though. She also showed her more than 250,000 followers a time-lapse video that tracked her progression through her pregnancy. 

The pictures showed the glowing two-time Olympic medalist in a sports bra and a pair of shorts that reached the middle of her thighs. 

Her baby bump developed over time and grew to its final size.  

Her beautiful baby girl: She announced the birth via Instagram. She posted a picture of her little one bundled up in a blanket with a beanie on her head

Pregnancy over time: Kwan didn’t just post a picture though. She also showed her more than 250,000 followers a time-lapse video that tracked her progression through her pregnancy

The post was accompanied by a very long caption about Kwan’s journey to be a mother. 

‘I’m overjoyed and tears of happiness are streaming down my face as I share the news of the arrival of Kalista Belle Kwan!’ the nine-time United States champion said. 

‘I’ve always wanted to be a mom and, to me, she’s a perfect miracle. I had a hard time picturing what she might look like yet it seems like she’s been in my life forever. This has been a challenging journey to motherhood (not to mention a very long labor!!!) and I’m glad I never gave up. 

‘I feel so grateful to have had the support of so many during this time, including my fertility doctor, doctors and nurses who looked after me, friends that shared their stories, and of course, my family & my ❤️ who I could not live without. 

Long time coming: The post was accompanied by a very long caption about Kwan’s journey to be a mother

Less traditional pregnancy: From Kwan’s caption, it seems that the star went through a less traditional route to motherhood (pictured 2019)

‘As people closest to me know, I’m always full of surprises and tend to keep my personal life private. And, I’ve wanted to share this happy news for many months but each milestone seemed to be exciting and daunting at the same time. Each step of the way, I knew that there was still more time needed until I could hold her in my arms. Here’s a quick montage of the last 9 months to catch you all up:)’ 

She finished off her message with the following statement, ‘Also, I want to send my best to all the mom’s out there (as we all know, moms rule the world!). And, I wish anyone trying to conceive in any which way (ivf, iui, surrogacy, adoption and naturally) all the success and love. You’re not alone on this path and I’m pulling for you.’   

From Kwan’s caption, it seems that the star went through a less traditional route to motherhood. The Olympian was married in 2013 but divorced her ex-husband Clay Pell in 2017. She’s currently single.