Alysa Liu Wins Olympic Gold in Figure Skating

Milan — Alysa Liu has won Olympic figure skating gold, marking the first U.S. Woman to achieve this feat in over two decades.

The 20-year-old Liu, who previously retired from competitive skating at age 16 after the Beijing Olympics, returned to the sport in 2024. She stated earlier this week that a medal wasn’t her primary motivation, saying, “I’m OK if I do a fail program. I’m totally OK if I do a great program. No matter what the outcome is, it’s still my story.”

Joyful Performance Secures Gold

Liu delivered a dazzling performance in Thursday’s free skate, set to Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park Suite,” captivating the audience with her joyful skating and a shimmering gold dress. Her performance propelled her to the top of the leaderboard, securing her place on the podium.

Sakamoto and Nakai Claim Silver and Bronze

Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto secured the silver medal, even as her compatriot, Ami Nakai, claimed the bronze. Sakamoto, a bronze medalist in Beijing, is retiring after these Olympics. Nakai, at 17 years old, was competing in her debut senior season.

Team USA Celebrates

The Milano Ice Skating Arena erupted in cheers as Liu’s victory became official. She shared emotional hugs with her coaches and teammate Amber Glenn, who had a strong performance of her own, finishing fifth overall after moving up from 13th place following the short program. Isabeau Levito finished in 12th place.

Glenn, who nailed another triple axel in her free skate, shared with NBC that she was thinking of her six-year-old self during her performance.