MILAN, Italy-February 19, 2026. Four years after stepping away from competitive skating, Alysa Liu made a triumphant return at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games, capturing the gold medal in the women’s figure skating event and ending a 24-year wait for an American woman to stand atop the Olympic podium in singles skating.
The 20-year-old American skater, who performed to Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park,” executed a flawless free skate routine, impressing judges and fans alike with her technical skill, artistry, and composure under pressure. Liu’s victory marks her as the first member of Team USA to win Olympic gold in women’s figure skating since Sarah Hughes in 2002, and only the second to medal since Sasha Cohen’s silver in 2006.
Liu’s Olympic journey is nothing short of remarkable. After announcing her retirement following the 2022 Winter Olympics, she took time away from the sport to focus on personal growth and recovery from the intense pressures of elite competition. Her return to competitive skating in 2024–25 quickly proved she had regained her top form, culminating in a stunning performance at the 2026 Olympics.
Not only did Liu break the long-standing U.S. gold medal drought, but she also became the first figure skater to win Olympic gold in her 20s since Japan’s Shizuka Arakawa captured the title at age 24 in 2006, highlighting the longevity and resilience of her career.
The Milano Cortina Ice Arena witnessed a thrilling contest, with Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto earning silver and Ami Nakai taking bronze. Liu’s winning score reflected her combination of precision, artistry, and emotional connection to her music, captivating the audience from start to finish.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Liu reflected on her achievement on the way to the medal ceremony. “It’s an incredible feeling. To come back after so long and stand here with gold… it’s beyond words,” she said, her excitement shared by teammates, family, and fans in the arena.
Liu’s victory has far-reaching significance for American figure skating. Ending a 24-year gold medal drought not only cements her legacy but also inspires the next generation of skaters in the United States. Her story of perseverance, dedication, and comeback excellence underscores the spirit of the Olympics and highlights the power of resilience in elite sport.
