Figure Skater Alysa Liu Announces Olympic Comeback After Early Retirement

The two-time U.S. champion is returning to competition after stepping away from the sport at age 16.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 7:31am

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Alysa Liu, the two-time U.S. figure skating champion, has announced that she is making a comeback to the sport and will be competing in the 2028 Olympic Games. Liu retired from figure skating at the age of 16 in 2024, citing burnout and a desire to pursue other interests, but has now decided to return to the ice and make a run at the Olympics.

Why it matters

Liu's return to figure skating is significant as she was considered one of the rising stars in the sport before her early retirement. Her decision to step away from the sport at such a young age was seen as unusual, and her comeback attempt will be closely watched by fans and the figure skating community.

The details

After taking a two-year break from the sport, Liu has been training intensively and working to regain the technical mastery and artistry that made her a champion. She has been working with a new coach and has set her sights on qualifying for the 2028 Olympic team.

  • Liu retired from figure skating in 2024 at the age of 16.
  • Liu announced her comeback and intention to compete in the 2028 Olympics in January 2026.

The players

Alysa Liu

A two-time U.S. figure skating champion who retired from the sport in 2024 at the age of 16, but is now making a comeback with the goal of competing in the 2028 Olympic Games.

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What they’re saying

“Quitting was definitely, and still to this day, one of my best decisions ever,”

— Alysa Liu (Yahoo Daily News)

What’s next

Liu will continue her intensive training regimen as she works to qualify for the 2028 Olympic team. Her progress and performance in upcoming competitions will be closely watched by fans and the figure skating community.

The takeaway

Alysa Liu's decision to return to figure skating after an early retirement demonstrates the resilience and determination of elite athletes, as well as the evolving nature of sports careers. Her comeback attempt will be an inspiring story to follow in the lead-up to the 2028 Olympics.