Alysa Liu, the young American figure skater, has made headlines after winning gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, Italy. This victory signifies a remarkable achievement, as it marks the first time in 24 years that a U.S. female skater has clinched Olympic gold, following in the footsteps of Sarah Hughes, who last won in 2002.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Alysa-Liu-030426-2-3d1dfd0f42b6489894144a2a9dd1c140.jpg)
At only 20 years old, Liu has already experienced an extraordinary journey within the competitive world of figure skating. Her recent win came two years after her decision to retire at the age of 16, a choice driven by burnout and a yearning for a more normal life. Reflecting on her early career, Liu acknowledged that her formative years had been heavily focused on training and competition, leaving little room for other pursuits. “I really had nothing going on with my life, you know? Just training,” she recalled earlier this year.
Liu’s retirement was surprising for many, particularly given her status as a rising star in the sport. However, she soon discovered that stepping away from skating did not quell her passion for it. In 2024, a trip ski slope rekindled her love for the sport, as she experienced the thrill of gliding over the snow. This prompted her to return to skating, leading to a triumphant comeback in 2025 where she won gold at the World Championships, as well as at other competitions, both individually and in team events.
Following her success in Milan, Alysa Liu has expressed an eagerness to venture into new sports. In an interview with PEOPLE, she shared her interest in surfing, revealing, “I heard that surfing was really similar to skating and skiing… There’s not many activities in life where you feel the glide, and I recently heard surfing was one of them.” This foray into surfing could offer her a fresh avenue to explore the sensations she cherishes in skating.
Upon returning to California after her Olympic triumph, Liu has reflected on the social aspects of the games, highlighting one of the most enjoyable aspects of her experience: camaraderie with fellow athletes. “It felt like college, living in the Team USA dorm,” she recalled, expressing joy in the simple pleasures of shared meals, bus rides, and watch parties with other U.S. representatives.
Alysa Liu’s meteoric rise in figure skating has also led to an impressive social media following, evidence of her ability to connect with fans and aspiring skaters alike. Her perspective on competition diverges from the typical narrative that emphasises the pursuit of titles. Instead, Liu emphasises the importance of storytelling and emotional connection through her performances. “My goal is always to share my story and to connect with people,” she explains, underscoring the emotional depth she seeks to infuse into her sport.
As Liu looks ahead, her aspirations extend beyond the ice rink. While her recent achievements represent a high point in her career, she seems determined to maintain a balance between competitive success and personal joy. With plans to explore surfing and a desire to continue sharing her experiences, it is evident that she is not just focused on medals but also on the journey that shapes her as an athlete and as an individual.
As Liu sets her sights on new challenges, it is clear that her dedication and passion for skating, combined with her open-minded approach to other sports, will continue to inspire many. With each new venture, she is likely to share not only her story but also her unique perspective on balance, creativity, and the power of sport to connect people from all walks of life.