Alysa Liu wins historic gold for USA in Women’s Figure Skating at 2026 Winter Olympics
Alysa Liu’s Historic Gold: 20-year-old Alysa Liu won the gold medal in women’s singles figure skating on February 19, ending a 24-year U.S. gold medal drought in the event. Having retired at 16 before making a comeback, her “joyous” performance and signature “smiley” piercing have become major trending topics.
In a stunning performance, Liu captured the gold medal in women’s figure skating at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, marking the first time since Sarah Hughes in 2002 that an American woman has claimed the prestigious honor. Liu, who made a surprising return to the ice after a two-year retirement, triumphed with a flawless free skate, earning a total score of 226.79.
Liu, who entered the final competition in third place following her short program, delivered an electrifying performance that left the crowd cheering as she flawlessly executed her jumps, including a triple lutz-triple toe loop combination, and demonstrated her signature artistry. With a score of 150.20 in the free skate, she overtook Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto, who finished in second, and Ami Nakai, who earned the bronze.
Skating to Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park Suite” — the same program with which she won the world championship title last March — Liu landed her triple flip to open her skate, followed by her triple lutz-triple toe loop combination, and almost immediately had the crowd clapping along to the disco beat. As she skated off the ice, Liu turned to the camera and exclaimed, “That’s what I’m f—ing talking about!” ~ ESPN
This victory is a testament to Liu’s resilience, having returned to competition in 2024 with a renewed spirit after stepping away from the sport post-2022 Beijing Olympics. Liu’s win solidifies her place as a pioneering figure in the sport, showcasing her talent and passion for skating on her own terms.
Following her gold medal win, Liu will continue to inspire the next generation of skaters. As she has shown throughout her career, her love for the sport transcends competition, making her journey one of self-expression and artistic growth.
For more on Alysa Liu’s stunning gold medal performance, see the video below.
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(Sources: ESPN, CBS News, Sporting News, NBC Olympics)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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