United States star figure skater Alysa Liu, just two years removed from retiring from the sport following the 2022 Winter Olympics, just won the gold medal to become the first American women’s figure skater to take gold since Sarah Hughes achieved the feat in 2002.
“I’m very happy with how I skated,” Liu said after the medal ceremony. “[It was an] unbelievable feeling when I was done skating. And when I was skating — hearing the cheers — and I felt so connected with the audience. I want to be out there again.”
Ahead of the free skate Liu made it clear she wasn’t nervous.
“I really don’t feel nervous. I don’t feel the pressure. There’s nothing like holding me down or holding me back,” she said after the short program. “I invite it all in. So, no matter what happens, it’s a story.”
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It showed when she took the ice for the free skate, scoring the best program by nearly three points over silver medalist Kaori Sakamoto. Just moments before Liu won gold she waited to see the score of the final competitor, Japan’s Ami Nakai, who held the top score following the short program.
Cameras captured Liu’s reaction to Nakai failing to secure the gold medal, but still finishing atop the podium with a bronze medal. The American figure skater celebrated her own victory for just a few seconds before rushing in to support Nakai and recognize the 17-year-old skater’s accomplishment on the biggest stage.
Fans rushed to social media to show praise for Liu’s kindness and generosity in that moment.
“THIS is what the Olympics is supposed to be about. Bravo,” one fan said before another offered, “What a magnificent skater and such a warm compassionate competitor. BRAVO Alysa!!!”
“The way that she celebrated her competitor’s medal more than her own says so much about her character. I’m so happy for Alysa,” commented another.
Liu won the gold medal and the hearts of the fans in the process.
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