James Lang-Imagn Images

Olympics Makes Statement on Alysa Liu's Career Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Mar 7, 2026 8:29 AM ET

United States figure skater Alysa Liu took the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics by storm. While the 20-year-old was already a bona fide superstar heading into the games, very few people, if any, could have predicted Liu’s mind-blowing rise to fame.

The Oakland, California, native became a household name across the United States. This was after she won two gold medals in Milan. Liu’s first gold came in the team competition as she helped lead Team USA to victory.

Her shining moment, however, came during the women’s singles competition. She dominated the field en route to winning the United States’ first women’s individual gold in figure skating in 24 years.

Alysa Liu of the United States celebrates with the gold medal in the women's free skate at the Winter Olympics.James Lang-Imagn Images

Milan Cortina was Liu’s second trip to the Olympics. She also competed at the 2022 Beijing Games, but she failed to medal in China.

Liu shocked the ice skating world when she announced her retirement just months after the Beijing Games.

On Friday, the Olympics looked back on Liu’s major career decision. The Olympics praised Liu, who was only 16 when she chose to walk away from the sport four years ago.

“Her decision came after reflecting on her journey,” the Olympics posted on Instagram in a series of photos. “She felt she had little control over her life.

“Having started skating at five, her schedule, clothing, and daily routine had often been decided for her. Retirement was her chance to choose herself, and finally live on her own terms.”

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Liu started studying psychology at UCLA after her retirement. She put herself first and focused on her mental health during her time away from skating.

Liu returned to competition in 2024. She worked her way back to the top, winning the 2025 World Figure Skating Championships. Liu reached the pinnacle of her career with two gold medals at the Olympics.

“By prioritising herself Liu hopes to raise awareness on mental health and balance in all aspects of life,” the Olympics continued. “The psychology major’s return to figure skating continues to inspire others to rediscover old passions and find joy on their own terms.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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