U.S. Figure Skater and UCLA Student Alysa Liu Wins Gold After Comeback

The inspiring story of how Alysa Liu won gold at the Olympics after years of retirement.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Alysa Liu, a third-year Psychology major at UCLA, astonished the world by coming back from retirement and becoming the first woman from the U.S. to win a gold medal in figure skating in 24 years. Liu retired at 16 after the Beijing Olympics, but has now championed the importance of athletes having autonomy over decisions regarding their sport.

Why it matters

Liu's comeback and triumph in this year's Olympics left many awestruck, as she has skated to unique songs and developed her own personal style. Her rejection of the unhealthy culture in which some athletes are forced to prioritize their country over their physical and mental health serves as an inspiring example for young athletes.

The details

At 20 years old, Liu is now able to take ownership of her skating and flourish. She has skated to songs like 'MacArthur Park' by Donna Summer, 'Stateside' by PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson, and 'Promise' by Laufey, which have complemented her unique style. Liu has also bleached circles in her hair, creating a halo effect that underscores her angelic skating.

  • Liu retired at 16 after the Beijing Olympics.
  • Liu won gold at the Olympics in 2026.

The players

Alysa Liu

A third-year Psychology major at UCLA who won gold at the Olympics in 2026, becoming the first woman from the U.S. to do so in 24 years.

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The takeaway

Alysa Liu's comeback and triumph at the Olympics serves as an inspiring example for young athletes, as she has championed the importance of athletes having autonomy over decisions regarding their sport and rejected the unhealthy culture in which some athletes are forced to prioritize their country over their physical and mental health.