• Alysa Liu wins gold in women’s figure skating, first American woman to do so since 2002.
• She achieved a career-best score of 226.79 points at the Milan 2026 Games.
• Japan's Kaori Sakamoto took silver, with Ami Nakai winning bronze.
• Liu previously retired after the 2022 Beijing Olympics but made a successful comeback.
• Amber Glenn finished fifth, while Isabeau Levito placed 12th in the free skate.

Alysa Liu triumphed in women's figure skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, becoming the first American woman to win Olympic gold in the event in 24 years. Liu scored an impressive 226.79 points, securing her place at the top of the podium following an electrifying performance to Donna Summer's "MacArthur Park" on Thursday night. Japan's Kaori Sakamoto and Ami Nakai earned silver and bronze, respectively, marking a historic moment for the U.S. figure skating team, which hadn't medaled since 2006, according to CBS News, NPR, and Reuters.

Liu's journey back to the top was remarkable; she initially retired after the Beijing Olympics due to burnout but returned to compete with renewed vigor, winning the World Championship in Boston last year. On Thursday, her flawless execution and joyful performance captured the hearts of the crowd in a way that exemplified her confident comeback. This gold medal adds to the team gold she won earlier in the Olympics, highlighting Liu's pivotal role in revitalizing American figure skating, according to Le Monde and India Times.

Liu's teammate Amber Glenn delivered an inspiring performance as well, moving from 13th to finish 5th in the competition, which included a strong free skate that featured a triple axel. Meanwhile, Isabeau Levito's efforts placed her in 12th after she faced challenges during her routine. Liu’s bond with her fellow skaters, referred to as the "Blade Angels," showcases the camaraderie among American figure skaters, which has been a positive influence for the team, according to CBS News, NPR, and India Times.