In a stunning display of athleticism and artistry, Alysa Liu clinched the United States’ first gold medal in women’s figure skating in 24 years during the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, Italy. The 20-year-old from the San Francisco Bay Area delivered a dazzling free skate performance that earned her a score of 226.79 points, overshadowing her Japanese competitors, Kaori Sakamoto and Ami Nakai, who took home silver and bronze medals, respectively.
As Liu exited the ice, she exuberantly declared to a nearby camera, “That’s what I’m f—————— talking about!” a testament to the intensity of her emotions and the excitement of the crowd. This victory marks a significant milestone for U.S. Women’s figure skating, as it is the first individual gold medal won by an American woman since Sarah Hughes triumphed in Salt Lake City in 2002.
Liu’s journey to this moment has been anything but conventional. After stepping away from the sport to focus on her mental health, she spent two years exploring life beyond skating. Her experiences included climbing to the base camp of Mount Everest and enrolling at UCLA to study psychology. This time away from the ice ultimately led her to rediscover her passion for figure skating, and she returned with a newfound sense of freedom and confidence.
Impact on the Competition
During the competition, Liu’s performance was marked by technical precision and emotional depth, capturing the hearts of fans and judges alike. Her free skate routine was executed flawlessly, showcasing a series of complex jumps and spins that solidified her position at the top of the podium.
The moment Nakai’s score was announced, Liu’s teammate Amber Glenn leapt into the kiss-and-cry area, raising Liu’s hand in celebration. Liu’s humility shone through as she applauded Nakai, who embraced her after the event, highlighting the camaraderie among the competitors.
Reflections from Liu and Her Teammates
“I think my story is more important than anything to me,” Liu reflected after her victory. “This journey has been incredible, and my life has just been — I have no complaints.” Her sentiment resonated with Glenn, who remarked on Liu’s journey of prioritizing mental health. “Her story of taking a step back really attests to you never know what the journey to success is going to be,” Glenn, who finished fifth, shared. “I really hope that can reach the skating community, that it’s okay to seize time.”
Sakamoto, a three-time world champion, expressed her disappointment after finishing with a score of 224.90 points, noting, “I feel like I’m so disappointed, to be honest.” The emotional weight of the competition was palpable, especially as Sakamoto plans to retire after this season, having won a bronze medal in Beijing four years prior.
Alysa Liu’s Growth and Future
Liu’s latest gold medal complements her previous achievements, including a world title she won in 2022, marking the first by an American woman since 2006. Her golden sequined dress, adorned with a blue ribbon, symbolized her remarkable journey from a young prodigy to a confident athlete performing on her own terms.
Even during warmups, Liu exuded positivity and confidence, greeting friends and family in the stands. “What I was feeling,” she said, “was happy and confident.” This mindset translated into her performance, allowing her to showcase her talent without the weight of pressure.
The Road Ahead
As the Olympics continue, Liu’s victory serves not only as a personal triumph but too as an inspiration to athletes facing similar challenges. With the U.S. Figure skating community rallying around her success, there is hope for a resurgence in the sport following her historic win.
Looking ahead, Liu’s focus will likely remain on balancing her academic pursuits with her skating career as she prepares for future competitions. The message she embodies — that it’s okay to step back and prioritize mental health — will undoubtedly resonate with many in the competitive landscape.
As fans celebrate Liu’s remarkable achievement, the figure skating world is eager to spot what she will do next. Her performance in Milan has set a high bar, and the narrative of her comeback will continue to inspire both young skaters and seasoned professionals alike. Share your thoughts on Liu’s journey and her impact on the sport!