There’s magic on the ice as Alysa Liu glides effortlessly, captivating all who watch her. Following her silver medal win at the Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships in January 2026, the spotlight is now on this rising star as she gears up for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
At just 20 years old, Liu has already faced incredible challenges in her life. From her unconventional birth to her family becoming the target of a foreign government, and a surprise early retirement that paved the way for a triumphant comeback – Liu’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
Born on August 8, 2005, in Clovis, California, to her attorney father Arthur Liu and mother Yan “Mary” Qingxin, Alysa Liu’s story is one of resilience and determination. Raised with her siblings, Liu’s background is as unique as her talent on the ice.
Liu’s passion for figure skating was ignited at a young age by her father, inspired by the success of Chinese-American Olympic champion Michelle Kwan. Under the guidance of former figure skater Laura Lipetsky, Liu quickly rose to prominence, becoming the youngest woman to win a U.S. Championship title in 2019.
Overcoming challenges and setbacks, Liu made history by competing in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, representing the U.S. with grace and skill. Though she briefly retired, the call of the ice was too strong to resist, leading her to reclaim her title as World Champion in 2025.
Now training in Los Angeles while pursuing her college education at UCLA, Liu’s spirit shines both on and off the ice. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her unwavering determination have solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of figure skating.
As Alysa Liu prepares to take on the Milano Cortina Olympics, her story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and the unyielding spirit of a true champion. In a world where obstacles are plentiful, Liu’s journey stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who dare to dream big.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.