MILAN, ITALY – Alysa Liu, the 20-year-old American figure skater, captivated audiences at the Milano Ice Skating Arena Saturday night with a dazzling performance at the Olympic Exhibition Gala. Skating to the Zara Larsson remix of PinkPantheress’ hit song “Stateside,” Liu delivered a performance that underscored not only her athletic prowess but also her growing influence as a style icon and a compelling narrative of perseverance. This appearance comes just days after she secured a historic gold medal in the women’s free skating event on February 19th, marking the first American victory in that event since 2002. She also contributed to a team gold medal win.
The choice of “Stateside” was particularly meaningful, as Liu revealed earlier in the week that PinkPantheress is her favorite artist. The connection was facilitated by reporter Raymond Braun, who showed Liu a video message from PinkPantheress herself, expressing admiration and support. In the video, PinkPantheress said, “Alysa, lots of love, thank you so much for supporting me. I hope that you have a really good show. You are so inspiring and when I was younger I was obsessed with figure skaters so you are literally living my dream. Thank you so much for the love.” Liu responded with enthusiasm, stating she would skate to the song if given the opportunity at the Gala.
A Comeback Story and a Unique Style
Liu’s journey to Olympic gold is remarkable, marked by a temporary retirement and a triumphant return. She initially stepped away from the sport at age 16 following her debut at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, citing burnout. However, she resumed training two years later, driven by her continued passion for figure skating. This resilience has resonated with fans and media alike, contributing to her popularity beyond her athletic achievements.
Beyond her skills on the ice, Liu has garnered attention for her distinctive personal style, including her signature “halo” hair and a smiley piercing. She was even named “best dressed” by singer Laufey at a concert in San Francisco last year, as documented on Instagram. This blend of athletic talent and individual expression has positioned her as a role model for a new generation of athletes.
Musical Choices Reflecting a Modern Aesthetic
Liu’s program selections throughout the competition showcased a diverse and contemporary musical taste. In the singles competition, she skated to Laufey’s “Promise” during the short program and Donna Summer’s 1978 classic “MacArthur Park Suite” for the free skate. The choice of “Stateside” for the Exhibition Gala further solidified her connection with current music trends and her willingness to embrace a modern aesthetic in a traditionally formal sport. Zara Larsson herself expressed her excitement about the performance, stating on TikTok that it gave her “goosebumps.”
The Impact of a Gold Medal Performance
Liu’s gold medal win has been hailed as a significant moment for American figure skating. According to Olympics.com, it was the first American gold in the women’s free skating event at the Winter Olympics in 24 years. The victory has sparked renewed interest in the sport and elevated Liu to a prominent position within the athletic community. Her authenticity and openness have also made her a popular figure with the media, as evidenced by her candid interviews and engaging social media presence.
In a recent interview with CBS News, Liu offered advice to aspiring athletes, stating, “Don’t strive to be the next me.” This sentiment reflects her emphasis on individuality and self-expression, encouraging others to forge their own paths rather than attempting to replicate her success.
What’s Next for Alysa Liu?
Following her triumphant performance at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Liu has undoubtedly earned a well-deserved rest. While her immediate plans remain undisclosed, her continued presence in the spotlight suggests a bright future both on and off the ice. Fans and followers will be watching to observe what new challenges and opportunities she embraces as she continues to inspire with her talent, resilience, and unique style. The U.S. Figure Skating Federation has not yet announced any upcoming competitions or events featuring Liu, but information will be available on their official website as it becomes available.
Alysa Liu’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of self-expression, and the enduring appeal of athletic excellence. Her performance to PinkPantheress’ “Stateside” at the Olympic Gala was a fitting culmination of a remarkable journey, leaving a lasting impression on the world of figure skating and beyond.
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