Alysa Liu, a standout figure skater for Team USA, made a notable appearance at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The 20-year-old athlete sat alongside her teammates as International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry delivered her closing remarks. Liu, who has been a key player for Team USA, showcased a moment of genuine fatigue that resonated with viewers.
Liu’s busy schedule throughout the Winter Games is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She played a pivotal role in securing a gold medal for Team USA in the team event and followed that by winning another gold in the women’s individual free skate. Her achievement marked a significant milestone, as she became the first American female figure skater to win an individual Olympic gold medal since 2002.
In addition to her competition performances, Liu participated in the Figure Skating Exhibition Gala and conducted numerous press interviews during the Games. Her weariness became evident during the closing ceremony, leading to moments where she was seen yawning on camera, which quickly went viral on social media.
Fans have taken to platforms like Instagram to express their support and affection for Liu, highlighting her relatable moments of exhaustion. Comments like “our tired queen needs some sleep” and “she earned that yawn fair and square” reflect the understanding and admiration her followers have for her commitment and the toll that competition takes on athletes.
Despite the whirlwind of activity over the past weeks, it’s clear that Liu’s achievements have left a lasting impression, and her fans have rallied around her, wishing her the rest she deserves after an intense Olympic experience. Her candidness and the honesty about her fatigue have made her even more endearing to her audience, showcasing the human side of elite athletics.
As Liu steps away from this grueling competition, she has undoubtedly earned the admiration and support of her fans around the world, who are eager to see what she will accomplish next in her career.