Alysa Liu wins first U.S. women's figure skating gold in 24 years

The 20-year-old reigning world champion dazzled with a flawless free skate performance in Milan, Italy.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Alysa Liu skated with poise, grace and beauty to capture the United States' first Olympic gold medal in women's figure skating since 2002. The 20-year-old reigning world champion scored a season-best 150.20 points in the free skate, more than a point higher than silver medalist Kaori Sakamoto of Japan. Liu's combined score of 226.79 points was nearly two points higher than Sakamoto's.

Why it matters

Liu's gold medal ends a 24-year drought for the United States in women's figure skating at the Olympics, a marquee event that has long been a source of national pride. Her performance showcased the depth of American talent in the sport and could inspire a new generation of skaters.

The details

Skating to Donna Summer's "MacArthur Park," Liu delivered a daring, dynamic routine full of energy and flawless execution. Though not the most technically difficult program, Liu's artistry and performance quality earned her the top score. Sakamoto finished second with a combined score of 224.90 points, while 17-year-old Ami Nakai of Japan took bronze.

  • Liu won the gold medal on February 19, 2026 in Milan, Italy.
  • The last time a U.S. woman won Olympic gold in figure skating was in 2002, when Sarah Hughes triumphed in Salt Lake City.

The players

Alysa Liu

A 20-year-old American figure skater who is the reigning world champion and just won the Olympic gold medal in women's figure skating, the first for the U.S. in 24 years.

Kaori Sakamoto

A Japanese figure skater who won the silver medal in the women's event at the 2026 Olympics in Milan.

Ami Nakai

A 17-year-old Japanese figure skater who won the bronze medal in the women's event at the 2026 Olympics in Milan.

Sarah Hughes

The last American woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating, which she did at the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so honored to have this and be alongside the people who have won it in the past. They're incredible. It's crazy that I have the same thing they do now.”

— Alysa Liu (UPI)

“I'm so happy with the way I skated today. The crowd was incredible, and the skate went exactly how I wanted it to.”

— Alysa Liu (UPI)

The takeaway

Alysa Liu's gold medal triumph marks a significant moment for American figure skating, ending a 24-year drought for the U.S. in the women's event. Her dynamic, flawless performance showcased the depth of talent in the sport and could inspire a new generation of American skaters to pursue Olympic glory.