What's Happening?
Alysa Liu, a 20-year-old figure skater, has made a remarkable return to the Olympic stage at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. After retiring from the sport four years ago, Liu has returned with renewed
passion and is competing in the women's single skating events. Her performance in the short program, part of the team competition, earned her a second-place finish behind Japan's three-time world champion, Kaori Sakamoto. Liu's skate was set to the song 'Promise' by Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey, who expressed her admiration for Liu's performance on TikTok. Laufey's post, which celebrated Liu as 'our Olympian,' garnered nearly 3 million views, highlighting the widespread support and excitement surrounding Liu's Olympic journey.
Why It's Important?
Alysa Liu's return to the Olympics is significant not only for her personal journey but also for the broader figure skating community. Her comeback story resonates with many, showcasing resilience and the ability to reignite passion for a sport after stepping away. Liu's performance has captured the attention of both fans and artists, such as Laufey, indicating a crossover appeal that extends beyond traditional sports audiences. This attention can boost viewership and interest in figure skating, particularly among younger audiences who engage with platforms like TikTok. Additionally, Liu's success may inspire other athletes who have faced similar challenges, reinforcing the idea that stepping away from a sport does not preclude a successful return.
What's Next?
Alysa Liu is scheduled to compete in several more events at the Milan Cortina Olympics. Her upcoming performances include the women's single skating-free skate as part of the team event and individual competitions. These events will be broadcast on NBC and available for streaming on Peacock and other NBC platforms. As Liu continues to compete, her performances will likely draw significant attention from both the media and fans, potentially influencing her future career opportunities and endorsements. The support from artists like Laufey may also lead to further collaborations or appearances, expanding Liu's influence beyond the sports world.
