Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the United States perform their rhythm dance in the ice dance competition at the figure skating world championships in Montreal, March 22, 2024. (PHOTO / THE CANADIAN PRESS VIA AP)

Veteran ice dance duo Madison Chock and Evan Bates scored a 90.08 on Friday for their rhythm dance routine at the world championships in Montreal, putting the Americans on the cusp of a second consecutive world title.

Italians Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri were in second after notching a 87.52, and home favorites Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier of Canada held third with 86.51 ahead of Saturday's free dance.

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Performing to music by Queen, Chock and Bates drew roars from the crowd for their smooth twizzle sequence, closing rotational lift and sassy attitude.

"We went out there, and I know it sounds cheesy, but to have the time of our lives," said Bates.

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"We've been looking to a Montreal worlds for a long time. Being here for an 11th world championships, healthy and still enjoying it all, it's the greatest victory of all."

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Chock, 31, and Bates, 35, relocated to Montreal after a disappointing finish at the 2018 Olympics in Pyeongchang.

They won their first world championship in Japan last year and their first grand prix final in December.