From Third to Gold — And Into History.  Alysa Liu delivered the skate of her life at the 2026 Winter Olympics — rocketing from third place to the top of the podium and becoming the first U.S. woman to win Olympic gold since 2006. Her free skate was fearless. Triple Lutz — explosive and clean. Triple Salchow — effortless and sharp. Every landing punctuated with the confidence of someone who knew this was her moment. By the time she struck her final pose, the arena was shaking. But the medal isn’t the only reason this victory feels seismic. Years ago, Liu made a bold, controversial decision about her career path — one that many believed would derail her Olympic trajectory entirely. Instead, it became the foundation of this comeback story. From doubt to dominance. From “what if” to “what now.” WATCH BELOW

Alysa Liu has delivered one of the most unforgettable moments of the 2026 Winter Olympics, rising from third place after the short program to claim the gold medal in women’s figure skating — and becoming the first American woman to win Olympic gold in the discipline since 2006.

Skating under enormous pressure, Liu produced a fearless and technically precise free skate that electrified the arena. Her triple Lutz was sharp and powerful, followed by a clean and confident triple Salchow that immediately shifted the momentum of the competition. Every element was executed with calm control, and every landing reflected a skater performing at the absolute peak of her career.

By the time she struck her final pose, the crowd was on its feet, fully aware they had just witnessed a historic performance.

What makes this victory even more remarkable is the path that led her back to the Olympic spotlight. Several years ago, Liu made a highly debated decision about her career direction, stepping away from the traditional trajectory many believed was necessary to remain competitive at the highest level. At the time, critics questioned whether she would ever return as a serious Olympic contender.

Instead, that decision became the foundation of her resurgence.

Her journey from uncertainty to Olympic dominance now stands as one of the defining comeback stories of the Games — a powerful reminder that unconventional choices can sometimes lead to extraordinary outcomes.