UCLA Star Alysa Liu Wins Olympic Gold

First American woman to take home figure skating gold in 22 years

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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USA figure skater Alysa Liu, a 20-year-old UCLA student, took home the gold medal in a shocking result at the 2026 Olympics in Milan, Italy. Liu, who had previously retired from the sport due to burnout, rediscovered her passion and returned to competition, delivering two amazing performances to dethrone three star Japanese skaters and become the first American woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating since 2002.

Why it matters

Liu's inspiring comeback story and historic gold medal win marks a significant achievement for American figure skating, which has struggled to produce a women's Olympic champion in over two decades. Her victory also highlights the importance of mental health and work-life balance for elite athletes.

The details

Liu, who is studying psychology at UCLA, dropped out of figure skating after experiencing burnout at age 16 following her appearance at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. After taking time to reassess her mental health, she rediscovered her passion for the sport and returned to competition in 2024. In Milan, she delivered two flawless performances to surpass the top-ranked Japanese skaters and claim the gold medal, becoming the first American woman to win Olympic figure skating gold since Sarah Hughes in 2002.

  • Alysa Liu won Olympic gold on February 19, 2026 in Milan, Italy.
  • Liu previously competed at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
  • Liu retired from figure skating at age 16 due to burnout, but returned to the sport in 2024.

The players

Alysa Liu

A 20-year-old UCLA student and American figure skater who won the gold medal in women's singles at the 2026 Olympics in Milan, Italy.

Sarah Hughes

The last American woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating, which she did on home soil in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2002.

Michelle Kwan

A former UCLA Bruin who won a medal at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, where Sarah Hughes won gold.

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What they’re saying

“I really despised skating. Through time, I realized it doesn't have to be like that. Whether I beat them or not is not my goal. My goal is just to do my programs and share my story.”

— Alysa Liu (yahoo.com)

What’s next

Liu's inspiring comeback and gold medal win is sure to inspire a new generation of American figure skaters. She will likely be celebrated as a hero in her hometown of Oakland and on the UCLA campus.

The takeaway

Alysa Liu's journey from Olympic burnout to Olympic champion is a testament to the power of perseverance, mental health awareness, and the ability to rediscover one's passion. Her historic victory marks a significant milestone for American figure skating and serves as an inspiration for athletes to prioritize their well-being while pursuing their dreams.