What's Happening?
American figure skater Alysa Liu has experienced a significant surge in her social media following after her performance at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. Liu, who won two gold medals, including her first singles gold, saw her Instagram followers
increase by 5 million. This growth represents a 357% increase through February 17, followed by an additional 900% increase post-gold medal win. Liu's rise in popularity on social media surpasses other American athletes like snowboarder Chloe Kim and figure skater Ilia Malinin, who also saw substantial increases in their follower counts.
Why It's Important?
The dramatic increase in Alysa Liu's social media following highlights the growing influence of digital platforms in shaping athletes' public profiles and marketability. This surge can lead to increased sponsorship opportunities and media attention, further enhancing Liu's career prospects. The trend also underscores the role of social media in connecting athletes with global audiences, allowing them to build personal brands beyond their athletic achievements. For the sports industry, this shift emphasizes the importance of digital engagement strategies to maximize visibility and fan interaction.
What's Next?
Alysa Liu has expressed her intention to continue competing in figure skating, with plans to participate in the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps. Her ongoing presence in the sport, coupled with her growing social media influence, positions her as a prominent figure in the future of figure skating. As Liu continues to compete, her digital following is likely to expand, potentially leading to new partnerships and collaborations within and outside the sports industry.
