Alysa Liu Makes History as First American Woman to Win World Figure Skating Championship in Nearly Two Decades

Alysa Liu Makes History as First American Woman to Win World Figure Skating Championship in Nearly Two Decades

In a remarkable comeback to competitive figure skating, Alysa Liu captured the title of World Figure Skating Champion, marking a significant milestone for American women in the sport. This victory unfolded at Boston’s TD Garden, where Liu managed to dethrone Japan’s three-time defending champion, Kaori Sakamoto, on Friday night.

Liu’s triumph is particularly noteworthy, as she became the first American woman to secure this prestigious title since Kimmie Meissner in 2006. This victory not only highlights Liu’s skill but also the enduring spirit of American figure skating.

A Meteoric Comeback

Liu’s win represents an impressive resurgence after her departure from the sport in 2022. Her return to the ice has captivated fans, as the 18-year-old skater demonstrated exceptional poise and performance under pressure. Following the competition, Liu expressed her overwhelming emotions about the victory, saying, “This means so much to me and everything I’ve been through. I’m so happy, and I’m mostly glad I could put out two of my best performances.” Her heartfelt words reflect her journey back to the ice and her determination to rise to the occasion.

A Star from the Beginning

At just 13 years old, Liu made history by becoming the youngest U.S. figure skating champion in 2019. She defended her title the following year, showcasing talent that many believed could lead to a bright future in the sport. Liu fulfilled a lifelong dream by qualifying for the Olympics, where she finished sixth at the 2022 Beijing Games. In addition, she earned a bronze medal at the World Championships that same year, establishing herself as a formidable competitor on the global stage.

Stepping Away from the Ice

Despite her achievements, Liu made the difficult decision to step back from competitive skating. She shared that the sport had transitioned from a joyful pursuit to a demanding job, prompting her to focus on living the life of an ordinary college student. During this time away, Liu discovered her love for skiing, which reignited her competitive spirit and prompted thoughts of a return to figure skating.

In early 2023, Liu took a significant step by announcing her comeback through a cryptic post on social media. Although the journey back proved challenging in the unpredictable world of figure skating, Liu made strides, finishing in second place at the U.S. championships in the months leading to the World Championships.

Meeting Expectations

As she stood on the podium in Boston, Liu conveyed her surprise at the victory. She remarked, “I didn’t expect this. I didn’t have expectations coming in. It’s more about what can I put out performance-wise during competitions.” Liu’s approach highlights the evolution of her mindset, focusing on her personal performance rather than external pressures.

Now with a world title under her belt, Liu positions herself well to compete for a spot on the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic team for the United States. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and determination in the face of challenges.

Looking Ahead

The figure skating community eagerly anticipates Liu’s future endeavors. With her passion for the sport reignited, fans are excited to witness her upcoming performances and the potential for further achievements. As she embraces this new chapter in her career, Liu exemplifies the spirit of perseverance that defines champions.

This victory not only marks a personal milestone for Liu but also signifies a bright new era for American figure skating, inspiring the next generation of skaters. Her journey continues to resonate, proving that hard work and passion can lead to remarkable success.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.