Alysa Liu Ends A 24-Year Drought With Historic Olympic Gold In 2026

After a long wait, the United States has finally celebrated a return to the Olympic podium in the women’s short program at the Winter Games.

Team USA’s comeback wasn’t just symbolic — 20-year-old breakout star Alysa Liu claimed the gold medal with a stunning short program performance on February 19, leaving no doubt about her place at the top.

Alysa Liu (24) of the United States | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images© Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Now a UCLA student, Liu became the first American woman in 24 years to capture Olympic gold in women’s singles, breaking a drought that had stood since Sarah Hughes’ unforgettable triumph at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games.

The magnitude of the moment becomes even clearer in context. Following the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, Liu stepped away from competitive skating after feeling disconnected from the sport. Her decision to return just two and a half years later ultimately reshaped her entire career.

That remarkable comeback carries even deeper meaning when considering Liu’s family story — especially the influence and support of her father, Arthur.

Arthur Liu welcomed five children through surrogacy, with Alysa as the eldest. She and three of her siblings share the same surrogate mother, whom Alysa has met, adding a rare and deeply personal dimension to the journey behind her Olympic success.

Arthur Liu’s Reaction To Alysa’s Gold Medal Says It All

Arthur Liu was in the arena Thursday night, watching firsthand as Alysa secured her second gold medal of the Games, following her earlier contribution to Team USA’s gold-winning team event.

Television cameras caught Arthur celebrating alongside Alysa’s siblings in the stands the moment it became clear she had locked in the top position.

It was a scene filled with raw emotion — a father witnessing years of sacrifice, faith, and perseverance come together in a single moment. Arthur, who emigrated to the United States from China at age 25, appeared visibly moved as his daughter reached the pinnacle of her sport.