Alysa Liu, the American figure skating star, has recently made headlines after her impressive victories at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Italy. The 20-year-old athlete clinched gold medals in both the women’s singles figure skating and the team event, marking a significant achievement for the United States, as it is the first time a female figure skater from the country has taken home the gold since Sarah Hughes in 2002.
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Following her triumphs in Milan, Liu returned to her home state of California, where she took the opportunity to clarify the correct pronunciation of her name. In an interview with Newsweek, Liu revealed that her surname, often pronounced as “Lu” by many, is actually pronounced “Lee-oh.” She expressed understanding towards those who struggle with her name, stating, “I personally don’t care… I don’t expect people to know how to say that.”
The athlete also shed light on how her first name is pronounced. While her family calls her “Ally-sa,” she noted that her friends typically use the more common American pronunciation of “Alyssa.” Liu shared, “‘Alyssa’ is how my friends call me. And that’s how the world calls me.” This distinction showcases her approachable nature, as she appears unfazed by the mix-ups regarding her name.
Navigating her newfound fame has not come without its challenges. Early in her career, Liu had to grapple with the pressures of competition. After competing in the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, she made the decision to retire at just 16 years old due to feelings of burnout. Reflecting on her earlier years, she explained, “I really had nothing going on with my life, you know? Just training.” This realisation led her to step away from the ice, prioritising her well-being while ensuring that her passion for the sport remained intact.
Liu’s experiences have now shifted focus from merely chasing titles to sharing her journey with others. She articulated that her aim is to connect with people through her performances, expressing emotions, and turning personal experiences into art. “My goal is always to share my story and to connect with people,” Liu stated in an interview with PEOPLE, highlighting her desire to resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
Among the highlights of her Olympic journey, Liu cherished the friendships formed with fellow Team USA athletes. Describing her time at the Olympic Village, she remarked, “It felt like college, living in the Team USA dorm,” adding that taking part in watch parties and sharing meals with fellow athletes made the experience even more enjoyable.
However, following her whirlwind experience at the Olympics, Liu made a surprise announcement regarding her future in competitive skating. On March 8, she revealed on Instagram that she would be withdrawing from the upcoming world figure skating championships scheduled for later this month in Prague. “There’s been a lot of exciting things happening since my return from Milan, so I’m taking some time for that,” she explained. Liu reassured her fans that she would be supporting her peers from a distance, expressing enthusiasm for the next skating season.
Her decision to step back comes at a pivotal moment in her career. As a young athlete with immense success, Liu’s approach to fame and the pressures it brings sets a noteworthy precedent. By prioritising her mental health and personal growth, she serves as a role model for aspiring athletes who may face the same challenges.
The future for Alysa Liu appears bright as she navigates her career, balancing the pressures of competition with her desire to create a meaningful connection with her audience. As she continues to share her journey, it’s clear that Liu’s contributions to the sport extend beyond her accomplishments on the ice, fostering a connection that resonates with many. The figure skating community, as well as her fans across the globe, eagerly await her next steps on and off the ice.