In the grand tradition of underdog stories, Alysa Liu's victory in the women's figure skating competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-determination. When she retired from competitive skating at just 16, few would have predicted that she would make a triumphant return two years later to claim the gold medal.
Alysa Liu: The Unlikely Champion
Liu's win is a victory for more than just impressive skating. Her comeback is a statement about autonomy and the importance of listening to women and girls in sports like figure skating. As she returned to competitive skating, Liu made it clear to her coaches and family that she, and no one else, would make all the decisions about her career.
"I don't think anything is going to be hard about the Olympics," Liu said, when asked about the pressures of being a returning Olympian. "What is there to lose? Every second you are there, you are gaining something."
Breaking Barriers
Liu's victory is a milestone in the increasingly complex and demanding world of women's figure skating. At 18, she is part of a new generation of skaters who are redefining what it means to compete at the highest level.
The road to her gold medal was marked by intense competition and tough decisions. Liu held off an onslaught from three strong Japanese skaters, including 2022 silver medalist Kaori Sakamoto, whose mistake in a jump combination cost her points.
"Her comeback is a statement about autonomy and the importance of making sure women—and, in sports like figure skating, girls—are heard," said Amber Glenn, Liu's teammate. "Her perspective on the sport is a healthy one that other skaters should emulate—one that focuses on the joy in the sport rather than the pressure and the competitiveness."
From Pressure to Perfection
Liu's win is a testament to the power of a growth mindset and the importance of staying true to oneself. Despite the intense pressure and scrutiny that come with competing at the Olympic level, Liu remained focused on her goals and refused to let others dictate her path.
In an interview with TIME, Liu shared her thoughts on the pressures of competitive skating and the importance of staying positive and focused. "I think it's really cool that people are excited about my comeback," she said. "I'm just trying to enjoy the experience and learn from it."
As she stands on the podium, her shiny new gold medal around her neck, Liu is a shining example of what it means to succeed on one's own terms. Her victory is a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks, anything is possible.
