MILAN — Alysa Liu is defying conventions as she prepares for the 2026 Winter Olympics, carving out a distinct identity in the world of figure skating that sets her apart from the traditional mold. With a vibrant personality that includes unique styles like halo rings in her hair and an upper frenulum piercing, Liu infuses her youthful exuberance into every performance. Her approach to skating mirrors the breakthrough spirit of characters like Mia Thermopolis from “The Princess Diaries,” as she embraces her individuality and challenges the status quo. “Unusual,” remarked Brian Boitano, an Olympic gold medalist, while discussing her unique presence on the ice.
Liu’s journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. After stepping away from competitive skating in the aftermath of the 2022 Winter Olympics, Alysa described feeling “really unhappy” and even experiencing trauma related to the sport. Her father, Arthur Liu, noted that she was avoiding the ice altogether, a stark contrast to her earlier passion. However, a ski trip to Lake Tahoe in January 2024 rekindled her love for skating. The experience reignited her motivation, and when she returned to the rink, it was with a renewed focus on joy and artistry rather than competition.
This bold return has resulted in a remarkable comeback; Liu has already clinched significant awards, including winning the World Championship just a year after her return. With victories including the 2025 Grand Prix final and a strong performance at the 2026 U.S. Championships, she secured her spot on the Milano Cortina team. This resurgence is not only a testament to her talent but also to the transformative power of stepping back and redefining one’s path.
Alysa Liu exemplifies the essence of an extrovert, bringing a contagious energy to Team USA’s “Blade Angels.” Her playful nature fosters a supportive atmosphere among her teammates, who, like her, celebrate the artistry of skating rather than purely focusing on victories. Liu’s lighthearted attitude towards competition is refreshing; she’s expressed that she wouldn’t be disheartened by a poor performance at the Olympics, emphasizing that enjoying the process is paramount.
“I’m really enjoying my time. I really value my training,” Liu stated, highlighting her passion for the sport as her primary motivation for returning. As she prepares to grace the ice again, Alysa is not just a seasoned athlete but a stronger, more confident version of herself, ready to embrace both the competition and the joy of skating.
With her distinctive style and unyielding spirit, Alysa Liu is set to shine at the Winter Games, proving that the blend of artistry and individuality could very well pave her way toward a golden journey in Milano Cortina.