Alysa Liu surges into medal range as US teammates stumble in Olympic short program

Alysa Liu, the reigning world champion, is carrying the hopes of the “Blade Angels” into the women’s free skate at the Milan Cortina Olympics. After a strong performance in the short program, Liu finds herself in contention for gold, trailing only two points behind leader Ami Nakai.

Liu’s performance was highlighted by a triple lutz-triple loop combination, the most difficult that any woman attempted in the competition. She expressed her happiness with her skate, feeling grounded and connected with her program on another level. With her family, friends, and siblings in the audience, Liu found the support she needed to deliver a standout performance.

Unfortunately, the rest of the American team did not fare as well. Isabeau Levito struggled with under-rotations and step sequences, leaving her in eighth place. Amber Glenn, the three-time U.S. champion, was in medal contention until a mistake on her final jump cost her valuable points.

Despite the setbacks, Glenn received a boost of encouragement from Madonna, whose song “Like a Prayer” serves as the soundtrack to Glenn’s free skate. With a gold medal from the team event already under her belt, Glenn’s focus now turns to supporting Liu in the individual competition.

Liu, who finished sixth at the 2022 Beijing Games, is no stranger to the pressure of the Olympic stage. After a brief retirement, she has returned with a carefree attitude and a renewed perspective on figure skating. When asked about beating the Japanese competitors in the upcoming free skate, Liu emphasized that her goal is not to compete against others but to share her story through her performances.

As the Americans look to salvage a largely frustrating Olympics for U.S. Figure Skating, all eyes are on Liu to potentially bring home a medal in the individual competition. With her experience, talent, and newfound perspective, Liu has the opportunity to shine on the world stage once again.

For more Winter Olympics coverage, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics.