Alysa Liu, the talented young figure skater representing Team USA, has made waves at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, Italy, not just for her remarkable athletic prowess, but also for her unique style and personality. The 20-year-old athlete claimed gold medals in both the women’s singles event and the team competition, further solidifying her status as one of the sport’s rising stars.
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Liu’s noteworthy appearance at the Winter Games included a striking “smiley” lip piercing that captured the attention of fans and media alike. The piercing, known as a frenulum piercing, is only visible when she smiles broadly enough to reveal her gums. In an interview with NBC affiliate TMJ4 News, Liu shared the backstory of her lip adornment, which she had pierced over two years ago. “I had my sister hold up my lip, and I was looking in the mirror, and I had my piercing needle and then — yeah, I just put it through,” she recounted, highlighting her own adventurous spirit.
This bold piercing reflects Liu’s overall approach to fashion, which has become a key aspect of her public persona. At the Winter Olympics, her hairstyle also garnered attention, particularly the distinct bleached rings she affectionately refers to as “halos” that encircle her dark brown locks. When questioned about her hair ahead of the Games, Liu expressed her commitment to maintaining this look, stating, “It’ll be the same” during the competition.
The rings in her hair are not a spontaneous choice but rather a tradition Liu has kept for three years. “I do this every year. I add a stripe, so it’s going to be like this for a year,” she explained during a media session at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Each year, she has added a new ring, which she meticulously points out. Liu indicated that the latest ring was done at the end of 2023, marking the continuation of her unique stylistic tradition.
Before her triumphant return to competitive figure skating, Liu experienced a brief retirement in 2022 but found joy in the sport again by 2024. This decision has clearly paid off, as she has emerged as a fan favourite in the skating world, not just for her accomplishments on the ice, but for her refreshing transparency and boldness. Although she enjoys her newfound influence, Liu remains hesitant about the title of “role model.” “I don’t know if I really want to be a role model, but I guess I am,” she remarked. Nonetheless, she appreciates those who see her as an icon of alternative style.
Liu’s personality shines brightly both on and off the ice. “I’m just doing me,” she stated confidently, referring to her distinctive fashion sense. She embraces the notion that her individuality might inspire others, but remains anchored in her authenticity, stating, “I just have a certain fashion sense and I’m kind of stubborn with it, so it’ll always come through.”
As the competition progressed, it became clear that Liu’s charisma and talent were an unbeatable combination. Winning gold medals cemented her position as one of the top figure skaters in the world, but it is the way she expresses herself that resonates with fans both in the stands and online. The blend of athletic achievement and personal style makes Liu a unique figure in the sporting community.
As the Olympics continue, Alysa Liu stands out as not only a remarkable figure skater but also as a dynamic personality who is unafraid to showcase her true self in a world often defined by convention. With her impressive performances and distinct style, Liu has undoubtedly garnered a loyal following that eagerly anticipates her next moves, both on and off the ice.