What's Happening?
Alysa Liu, a 20-year-old American figure skater, has captured public attention not only for her gold medal win at the 2026 Milano Cortina Games but also for her unique 'smiley' piercing. This piercing, located in the frenulum tissue connecting her upper lip to her gums, features jewels prominently displayed over her top front teeth. Liu, who pierced it herself over two years ago, showcased the piercing during her gold-medal performance, which ended a 24-year gold-medal drought for the United States in figure skating. Her victory and distinctive style have sparked widespread interest and discussion, highlighting her personal journey and return to competitive skating after a brief retirement.
Why It's Important?
Alysa Liu's achievements and personal expression through
her 'smiley' piercing underscore the evolving landscape of sports where athletes are celebrated not only for their performance but also for their individuality. Her story resonates with a broader audience, emphasizing themes of resilience and self-expression. Liu's return to the sport on her own terms and her success at the Olympics serve as an inspiration to many, particularly young athletes. Her viral piercing also reflects a cultural shift towards embracing diverse forms of self-expression, even in traditionally conservative arenas like sports.
