The film explores the turbulent life of Tonya Harding, a talented figure skater from a working-class background. From an early age, Harding is pushed by her domineering and abusive mother, LaVona, to achieve excellence in the rink. Tonya possesses extraordinary athleticism, performing feats few skaters can, notably being one of the first American women to complete a triple axel in competition. However, her life is fraught with adversity as she struggles against her socioeconomic status, a volatile relationship with her mother, and the disdain of figure skating's elite, who view her as too unrefined for the sport's polished image.

Harding's career becomes increasingly complicated when she marries Jeff Gillooly, who brings further instability into her life. Their relationship is rocky and marked by episodes of domestic violence. As Harding rises through the ranks of U.S. figure skaters and aims for Olympic glory, tension mounts, and her image is constantly battered by scandal and speculation. When a shocking incident involving rival skater Nancy Kerrigan threatens to derail Harding's career and future in the sport, the media frenzy intensifies. The incident captures national attention, painting Harding as the villain in a saga that raises questions about truth, class, and the American justice system.