World Champs Knierim, Frazier Dazzle in Day 1 at US Figure Skating Championships

Alexa Knierim (R) and Brandon Frazier compete in the pairs short program at the U.S. figure skating championships in San Jose, Calif., on Jan. 26, 2023. Godofredo A. Vásquez/AP Photo

SAN JOSE, Calif.—They held their on-ice embrace a little longer this time, kneeling in an end pose moments after a near-flawless short program.

Overwhelming favorite and reigning world champions Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier scored a personal-best 81.96 on Thursday for a commanding lead in the first day of the U.S. Figure Skating Championships.