Milan, Italy. Alysa Liu delivered a standout performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics, helping Team USA take an early lead in the figure skating team event. The 20-year-old American skating star showed poise, power, and precision on the Olympic ice, proving once again why she is one of the sport’s brightest young talents.
Liu earned a strong second-place finish in the women’s short program, giving the U.S. valuable points and keeping pressure on rival teams like Japan and Canada. Her routine drew praise from commentators and fans alike for its technical skill and smooth execution.
A Confident Return to the Olympic Stage
What makes Liu’s performance even more compelling is her personal journey. After competing in the 2022 Beijing Olympics and stepping away from competition, she made a successful return to elite figure skating. She went on to win the 2025 World Championship, marking a major milestone for U.S. women’s skating. Fans and analysts now see her as a leader in a new generation of American skaters.
Liu skated with confidence and focus in Milan. Her jumps were clean, her edges precise, and her presentation had energy. In a sport where a tiny error can cost medals, Liu’s consistency stood out.
Team USA’s Strategy in the Team Event
The team figure skating event is unique because it combines results from multiple disciplines — women’s and men’s singles, pairs, and ice dance – to produce a cumulative score. Liu’s second-place finish gave the U.S. a strong start, and her teammates followed with solid performances that kept the team near the top of the standings.
Early leads in the team event matter because they set the tone and build confidence. Going into the next rounds, the U.S. looks poised to contend for podium spots, and Liu’s contribution was a key part of that momentum.
Handling Unexpected Moments
Liu’s Olympic journey in Milan included an unexpected logistical hiccup. A high-profile motorcade briefly delayed her arrival at the arena, but she handled the disruption professionally and arrived in time to compete. That moment served as a reminder that elite athletes must be ready for anything, both on and off the ice.
The Rise of the “Blade Angels”
Alysa Liu is not skating alone. Together with teammates like Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito, she is part of a dynamic U.S. squad that fans and commentators have nicknamed the “Blade Angels.” Their blend of technical talent and personality has brought renewed excitement to U.S. figure skating and attracted new viewers to the sport.
This group’s chemistry adds a layer of interest beyond scores. When they perform well, it lifts the whole team and creates buzz that extends to fans on social media and beyond.
What This Means for the Rest of the Olympics
With the team event still unfolding, Liu and the U.S. remain in strong position. Her performance shows that she is not just technically gifted but mentally tough, able to deliver when it matters most. That resilience is key as the competition moves toward free programs and individual medals.
Liu’s journey from teenage prodigy to world champion to Olympic contender makes her one of the most intriguing athletes at these Games. For fans of figure skating and Olympic sport, her story adds depth and drama to every rotation, jump, and landing.
