alysa liu Advances to Free Skate as Teammates Also Move On
alysa liu joined Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito in securing spots in the free skate after the short program, setting up an anticipated final segment where technical firepower and artistic polish will determine the podium. Skaters drew praise for clean landings, musical connection and the ability to handle pressure on a big stage.
Short programs set the stage
The trio turned in performances that put them safely through to the free skate, each showcasing different strengths. Liu leaned on her jump repertoire to stake an early claim, while Glenn emphasized musicality and transition quality. Levito combined youthful energy with aggressive jump attempts that won her marks from the judges.
Judges rewarded skaters who balanced technical difficulty with clean execution. Errors on difficult elements proved costly for a handful of competitors, clearing the path for Liu, Glenn and Levito to advance. The results reflect how the short program remains a compact, high-stakes test: one mistake can derail a campaign, while a confident, clean outing can transform expectations heading into the free skate.
What to expect in the free skate
The free skate will offer a much larger canvas for each skater to stake a claim. For Liu, the focus will likely be on maximizing clean jump content while adding nuance to choreography and transitions to lift her program components. Glenn’s strength in performance quality makes her a likely contender to capitalize if she can pair artistry with consistent jumps.
Levito will aim to sustain momentum, converting her short-program energy into a longer, endurance-tested effort. The free skate’s extended format rewards pacing and stamina; skaters who construct programs to preserve speed and quality into the closing minute typically rise in the standings.
Coaches and choreographers will be watching matchups closely. Technical judges will scrutinize jump rotations and edge calls, while program component marks will reflect interpretation, skating skills, and the ability to sell the choreography under pressure. Expect strategic decisions about jump layouts, level of difficulty on step sequences, and how aggressively skaters chase bonus points for jump combinations.
Broader implications and the road ahead
Advancing to the free skate keeps Liu, Glenn and Levito in medal contention and underlines their status as athletes to watch in the remainder of the season. A strong free skate can reshape national rankings and influence selection conversations for upcoming international assignments and championship plans.
Beyond immediate results, the performances provide a snapshot of where each skater sits technically and artistically. Observers will be looking at consistency across both segments, injury management, and how each athlete responds to the pressure of a final. For fans, the free skate offers a chance to see full-program storytelling and to judge who can marry risk with reliability when it matters most.
The free skate will take place later in the competition schedule; final placements will be determined after the long program concludes. Expect heightened intensity and major swings as skaters push for podium positions and the season’s next milestones.
