After stepping away from competitive skating at just 16, Alysa Liu returned to the ice in March 2024 with a renewed outlook on the sport. Her comeback quickly turned into one of the biggest stories in figure skating, culminating in a victory at the 2025 World Championships and helping lead Team USA to gold in the Olympic team event.
Liu originally retired in 2022 following the Olympic season, surprising fans and commentators who had watched her rise from prodigy to international competitor in only a few years. She first gained national attention after becoming the youngest U.S. women’s national champion in 2019 at age 13.
Despite her rapid success, Alysa Liu said the intense training schedule and pressure of elite competition led her to step away from the sport. Having spent most of her childhood preparing for major competitions, Liu said she wanted the chance to experience life outside of skating, focus on school and spend time with friends. Her decision presented a desire to rediscover the enjoyment of skating rather than continuing solely under the expectations of international competition.
When Liu returned to competition on March 1, 2024, however, her approach to skating had changed. Instead of following a strictly controlled training structure, she began working more collaboratively with her coaches and taking initiative in choreographing her own routines. The shift allowed Liu to shape performances that reflected her personality and artistic vision.
Her programs often feature contemporary music that resonates with younger audiences, including “Promise” by Laufey and “Stateside” by PinkPantheress featuring Zara Larsson. The music selections have drawn attention on social media, helping introduce the sport to new audiences, particularly Gen Z viewers.
On the technical side, Liu is known for her fast, well-centered spins and difficult jump combinations. Her triple Lutz–triple loop combination is widely regarded as one of the most difficult and highest-scoring jump combinations in women’s skating.
Her success also marked a milestone for American figure skating. Liu’s Olympic performance helped end a 24-year drought for the United States in women’s singles gold while contributing to Team USA’s victory in the team event.
She is also part of a rising generation of American skaters sometimes referred to by fans as the “Blade Angels,” alongside Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito. Together, the group has helped bring renewed attention and success to the U.S. women’s program.
“Alysa Liu showcases determination and passion without pushing herself to the extremes. She believes that struggling is a part of the process and how she can fully embrace the sport now,” sophomore Zoe Rios said. “She’s the inspiration I have for my sport.”
For some students, Liu’s performances highlight the importance of passion and commitment in athletics.
“Her style and elegance really encourages me to do stuff I do with the same passion she has,” sophomore Alex Hyman said.
Others see Liu as a broader example of balancing ambition with well-being.
“I think she’s a great example for everyone in all areas,” junior Emma Ku said. “She showed everyone that pushing yourself to the brink isn’t necessarily the best and only way to success.”
Beyond competition results, Liu has gained significant attention online for her personality and appearance. Her dyed hair and distinctive style have circulated widely across social media platforms, with some fans adopting similar looks.
Despite her achievements, Liu’s career has not been without criticism. Some commentators have argued that her scores in international competitions were overly generous, particularly during her world championship victory.
There has also been criticism from some Chinese media outlets regarding Liu’s nationality. Although she has Chinese heritage, Liu represents the United States in international competition, which has sparked debate among some commentators.
Others have compared Liu to Russian skaters who historically dominated women’s figure skating with technically demanding programs. Because Russian athletes were banned from several international competitions, some critics argued that Liu’s results might have been different under normal circumstances.
Even so, supporters point to Liu’s resilience and unique career path. Few elite athletes step away from their sport as teenagers and return to reach the top of the podium.
Earlier this year, Liu announced she would withdraw from the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships in Prague. While the decision surprised some fans, it reflects the approach she has emphasized since returning to the sport—prioritizing balance and personal fulfillment alongside competition.
As Liu’s career continues to evolve, her influence on figure skating extends beyond medals and titles. For many young athletes watching her journey, her return to the sport represents a different vision of success—one defined not only by results, but by passion, independence and longevity.
