Alysa Liu Withdraws From World Championships Short Program After Practice Fall, Team Officials Say

CHICAGO, Feb. 17, 2026 (ET) — American figure skater Alysa Liu withdrew from the short program at the World Figure Skating Championships on Tuesday after a fall during practice left her with soreness, team officials confirmed. The decision came after medical evaluation and a precautionary approach toward recovery ahead of the free skate and potential team assignments later in the season.

Fall in practice prompted immediate medical checks

Liu took a hard fall while rehearsing elements earlier in the day, leaving her visibly affected and prompting on-ice staff to request a medical assessment. Team medical personnel examined her for possible concussion symptoms and musculoskeletal injury. While no structural damage was immediately diagnosed, staff cited persistent soreness and recommended withdrawal from the short program to prevent aggravation.

Coaches and team staff said the withdrawal was made with Liu’s long-term health and the remainder of the season in mind. The skater’s training schedule has been carefully managed in recent months as she balanced technical upgrades with competition demands, and officials emphasized a conservative approach following the practice incident.

Implications for the competition and upcoming season

Liu’s absence reshuffles the start list and opens a spot for alternates in the short program lineup. Judges and event organizers were notified and the schedule adjusted. The decision also leaves questions about Liu’s participation in the free skate and whether she will be considered for selection at later team events this season.

Team staff said they will continue to monitor Liu’s recovery and reassess her readiness in the coming days. Rehabilitation and rest, along with targeted diagnostics where needed, will guide any return-to-ice timeline. The skater has been known for pushing technical boundaries and attempting difficult elements, and the precaution reflects an attempt to preserve her competitive future rather than risk further injury.

Fans and teammates shared support on-site, with several fellow competitors sending cordial wishes between warmups. Event officials reiterated that athlete welfare remains the priority and that medical teams have full authority to recommend withdrawal or treatment when concerns arise.

Next steps for Liu and the U. S. squad

Further updates on Liu’s condition are expected as team medical staff complete follow-up evaluations. If cleared, she could still compete in the free skate; if not, the team will finalize any roster decisions for upcoming international assignments based on medical guidance and competitive readiness.

The situation underscores the precarious balance elite figure skaters face when integrating high-risk technical content into competitive programs. While no long-term prognosis was provided publicly, the measured response from Liu’s camp suggests a focus on measured recovery and strategic planning for the remainder of the season.

Filmogaz will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available from team medical staff and event officials.