Alysa Liu’s Golden Moment: From Burnout to Olympic Glory

Alysa Liu, at just 20 years old, has captivated the world with her remarkable journey to Olympic gold. The American figure skater secured the first U.S. Women’s figure skating gold medal since 2002 at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy , adding a second gold for the team event. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep connection to the music that fuels her performances.

A Triumphant Return

Liu’s path to the podium wasn’t always straightforward. She initially retired from the sport at age 16 following her Olympic debut in Beijing due to burnout . However, she returned to the ice two years later, driven by her enduring love for figure skating.

Skating to Success

At the Milano Ice Skating Arena on Saturday, February 21, Liu delivered a stunning performance in the Olympic Exhibition Gala, skating to “Stateside” by PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson . This followed her gold-medal-winning performances to Laufey’s “Promise” in the short program and Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park Suite” for the free skate .

A Fan of PinkPantheress

Liu’s appreciation for PinkPantheress extends beyond the Gala performance. She has publicly expressed her admiration for the artist, calling her a favorite . Prior to her Gala skate, Liu received a heartfelt message from PinkPantheress herself, expressing inspiration and support.

Beyond the Medals

Liu’s appeal extends beyond her athletic achievements. Her authentic personality, alternative style – including her signature halo hair and smiley piercing – have resonated with fans and media alike. She offers inspiring advice, encouraging others to forge their own paths: “Don’t try to be the next me.”

What’s Next for Alysa Liu?

With her Olympic success, Alysa Liu has cemented her place as a leading figure in the world of figure skating. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of pursuing one’s passion, overcoming challenges, and staying true to oneself. Zara Larsson even shared that Liu’s performance to “Stateside” gave her “goosebumps,” signaling the skater’s impact extends beyond the rink.