“Figure skating has always been my passion, and this moment proves that hard work pays off”
Alysa Liu has won the women’s figure skating gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano–Cortina. She scored 226.79 points after a strong free skate, rising from third place after the short program to take the top spot. Her clean jumps and elegant spins impressed both judges and fans.
Her victory is historic for the United States, as she becomes the first American woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating since Sarah Hughes in 2002, ending a 24-year medal drought. Liu’s free skate featured choreography to Donna Summer’s music and several difficult jumps, blending technical skill with artistry.
Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto took silver, while Ami Nakai earned bronze. Liu had already helped the United States win gold in the team event, making her a double Olympic champion at these Games.
The 20-year-old’s achievement is especially notable as she had briefly retired from competitive skating at 16 due to burnout, then returned with renewed focus and creativity. Her performance energized the arena and inspired fans, reaffirming the United States as a top force in women’s figure skating.