Alysa Liu delivered a career-defining performance to win gold in the women’s free skate at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The 20-year-old American skater topped the podium on Thursday in Milan Cortina.
Her victory ends a 20-year Olympic medal drought for US women in figure skating. It also marks the first individual Olympic gold for an American woman in the discipline in 24 years. The historic win is being celebrated across the United States.
Liu’s free skate routine was set to MacArthur Park by Donna Summer. The dramatic performance earned thunderous applause from the crowd. Judges rewarded her with top scores. She vaulted to the top of the standings in one of the most anticipated events of the Games.
The gold medal adds a defining chapter to her already remarkable career. It also delivers one of Team USA’s biggest moments of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Comeback Story Turns Into Olympic Glory
Liu’s Olympic triumph is even more remarkable because of her recent comeback. After competing at the 2022 Winter Olympics, she stepped away from elite figure skating. Many wondered if she would return to competition.
In 2025, she shocked the skating world by claiming the world championship title. Her comeback quickly gained momentum. Analysts began calling her a serious Olympic contender.
At Milan Cortina, Liu delivered under pressure. Her women’s free skate was technically sharp and emotionally powerful. She combined precision jumps with graceful choreography. Each element flowed seamlessly into the next.
Her performance proved decisive in a tightly contested field. Fans and commentators described it as one of the standout routines of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The gold medal validates her bold decision to return. It also cements her legacy as one of America’s greatest figure skaters.
Oakland Prepares to Celebrate Its Olympic Champion
Liu’s hometown of Oakland is preparing a warm welcome. City leaders praised her determination and resilience.
Mayor Barbara Lee called Liu a symbol of ambition and perseverance. She said the young champion represents the heart of Oakland. Local officials confirmed plans to honour Liu when she returns home.
Liu studied at the Oakland School of the Arts. She trained at the Oakland Ice Center during her rise through US figure skating ranks. Her journey from Bay Area rinks to the Olympic podium inspires young athletes nationwide.
The women’s free skate gold reshapes the figure skating results at Milan Cortina. It also strengthens Team USA’s medal count. For American fans, Liu’s victory signals a powerful return to Olympic dominance in women’s figure skating.
Her name now stands alongside legends in US skating history. The 2026 Winter Olympics will be remembered as the Games where Alysa Liu reclaimed gold for America.
