Team USA Women’s Curling Results: United States Falls to Flawless Switzerland

Early mistakes prove too costly as Swiss side puts on near error-free performance.

Team USA will need to execute down the stretch to overcome a shaky start. | Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Team USA entered its first curling match in the women's medal round since 2002 with high expectations but will now have to settle for a chance at bronze after falling 5-4 to a near flawless Switzerland side.

Swiss stalwart Alina Paetz put on a stunning display of shooting for 10 ends and proved an effective closer down the stretch as her team was able to protect their lead with clutch execution and strategy.

BRONZE MEDAL MATCH LIVE BLOG: Team USA Women’s Curling Live Updates: Bronze Medal Match vs. Canada

The U.S. women failed to maximize their advantage with the hammer, garnering a single point in each of their first three attempts en route to a 4-2 hole they could not overcome.

Tabitha Peterson's unit will now play in the bronze medal game vs. Canada on Sunday at 8:05 a.m. ET.

Team USA vs. Switzerland: Live blog from women’s curling semifinals

---

More Winter Olympics on Sports Illustrated

Listen to SI’s Olympics podcast, Daily Rings, below or wherever you listen to podcasts.