Alysa Liu Returns on Her Own Terms, Eyes Olympic Gold
Alysa Liu has embraced a new chapter in her life, both in figure skating and beyond. After announcing her retirement in April 2022, she made a remarkable return to the sport she loved. Liu has continued to excel, winning six out of her first twelve events since her comeback, including the 2025 World Championships and the Grand Prix Final in December 2025.
Alysa Liu: From Retirement to Success
At just 20 years old, Liu has taken control of her career and life. She has not only returned to competitive figure skating but has also become involved in choosing her costumes, choreography, and music. Now a student of psychology at UCLA, she has achieved a significant milestone: obtaining her driver’s license.
Reflecting on Her Journey
Many were surprised by Liu’s decision to retire at the age of 16, just two months after finishing sixth in her Olympic debut in Beijing and weeks after winning bronze at the 2022 World Championships. However, for Liu, this decision was about gaining independence from the rigid schedules set by others throughout her training.
- Started skating at age 5.
- Youngest skater to land a triple Axel at age 12.
- First American woman to land a quadruple jump at age 14.
Adapting to Change
After a two-year hiatus from figure skating, Liu engaged in various activities like tennis and hiking. Her return to the ice began with a skiing trip in early 2024, where she felt the adrenaline rush she had missed. Visiting a rink, she rediscovered her skills and reached out to her former coach, Phillip DiGuglielmo, to discuss a comeback.
Performance and Mental Approach
Liu has performed exceptionally well in recent competitions, achieving better results at ages 19 and 20 than during her early teenage years. She credits this improvement to increased maturity and her time away from the sport. She now views skating as an opportunity for artistic expression rather than just a competition.
During the 2025 World Championships, Liu conveyed her newfound perspective:
“I don’t think I wanted to do any competition before… I definitely wasn’t ready for competitions ever, in my opinion.”
Preparing for the Future
As she prepares for the upcoming Winter Olympics, Liu remains calm and focused. She does not feel anxiety about competitions, stating that the pressure is less significant for her now. Instead, she finds meaning in the artistry of her performances, appreciating that even mistakes can create a beautiful narrative.
Looking Forward
Liu’s journey is unique among her competitors. While many athletes view the Olympics with anxiety and expectation, Liu understands her performance’s significance as a personal journey. She is steering her own path—one that allows for growth and artistic expression in figure skating.
As she approaches the Winter Olympics, Alysa Liu is determined to perform on her terms, with an eye on Olympic gold while enjoying the journey. Her legacy continues to evolve as she takes charge of her destiny in the world of figure skating.
