American figure skater Alysa Liu won an Olympic gold medal in the Milan-Cortina U.S. women’s figure skating event on Thursday night, ending the Americans’ 24-year gold medal drought and giving the judges the green light for the 2026 title.
The 20-year-old ended a 24-year gold medal drought for the Americans, a joyous occasion. The free skate on the ice in front of a huge crowd and countless people was a different story, as if she had something to say after winning the title. Although the story is not complete, there is still a story left, and it is a beautiful one. Speaking to NBC News, she said, “It showed that Alysa Liu, whether she wins or loses, is not afraid of losing, like a wild bird, whether she wins or loses.
Liu’s golden dress was symbolic and shining in the night, like the night sky.
Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto and Ami Nakai were to watch as they finished the free skate.
Alysa Liu broke the drought with a final score—226.79 points, 150.20 in the free skate, and 76.59 in the short program, her best score of the season. Liu’s joy was evident after the performance. Previous winning records .
• Last American women’s gold: Sarah Hughes, Salt Lake City 2002
• Last American women’s medal: Sasha Cohen, Turin 2006
• Now: Alysa Liu, Milan-Cortina 2026
Liu’s journey has not been easy. Sarah Hughes was the last gold medalist for the United States in 2002, and now in 2026, she became the first American woman to win a medal in skating. Liu’s success will surely inspire a new generation.
Alysa Liu’s journey does not end here in Milan, but she will perform at the Olympic Gala and give American fans a chance to double the joy.
