Smiling Through the Pressure: How Alysa Liu Ended America’s 24-Year Figure Skating Gold Drought

Credit: Shutterstock

A Champion’s Return and Golden Triumph

Alysa Liu’s path to Olympic gold is a story of courage, renewal, and belief. After competing at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, she stepped away from competitive figure skating. At the time, she was still a teenager with major titles already to her name. Her decision surprised many fans, but she wanted time to grow, reflect, and reconnect with herself outside the pressure of elite sport.

Her time away from competition became a turning point. When Liu returned to training, she carried a different mindset. She focused on skating with freedom and happiness. In 2025, she made a remarkable comeback by winning the World Championships. The victory showed that she was not simply returning to the ice. She was ready to lead it.

At the Milano Cortina Olympics, Liu delivered the performance that changed American figure skating history. After the short program, she stood in third place. The competition was tight, and the final results were still uncertain. During the free skate, she performed to Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park Suite.” Her routine was confident and full of energy. She landed seven clean triple jumps and maintained strong speed and control throughout the program. Each element was precise, and her expression remained calm and joyful.

When the final scores were announced, Liu earned 226.79 points. She finished ahead of Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto, who won silver, and Ami Nakai, who claimed bronze. With that result, Liu became the first American woman to win Olympic singles gold since Sarah Hughes in 2002. The 24-year gold drought had come to an end.

Her success at the Games extended beyond the individual event. Earlier in the Olympics, Liu helped Team USA secure gold in the team competition. Her strong short program contributed valuable points that strengthened the team’s standing. By the conclusion of the Games, she had earned two Olympic gold medals, establishing herself as one of the most accomplished American skaters of her generation.

Liu’s impact reaches beyond her technical achievements. She is known for her free-spirited presence and genuine smile on the ice. Her performances reflect creativity and individuality. From her halo-inspired hairstyle to her smiley face piercing, she embraces personal expression with confidence. Audiences connect with her authenticity and positive energy.

Throughout her comeback, Liu has emphasized skating from a place of happiness. Her Olympic programs reflected that mindset. She skated with freedom, showing that joy and discipline can exist together. Her victory represents resilience and personal growth. Stepping away from competition required strength, and returning to win at the highest level required even greater determination.

Alysa Liu’s gold medal marked a historic moment for American figure skating. Her journey showed that passion, confidence, and love for the sport can shape champions and inspire a new generation.