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- Olympics. Alysa Liu's reasons for protecting her identity after winning gold at the Winter Olympic Games
American figure skating star Alysa Liu has become one of the most talked-about names at the 2026 Winter Olympics, capturing the hearts of fans both on and off the ice.
At just 20 years old, Liu made history by winning the women's singles gold medal at Milan-Cortina, becoming the first American woman to earn Olympic gold in figure skating since Sarah Hughes did so in 2002. She is also the first U.S. woman to medal in the event since Sasha Cohen's silver in 2006.
Liu's victory was marked not only by technical brilliance but also by her infectious enthusiasm, which made her performances feel effortless and deeply personal.
Liu's journey to Olympic gold is remarkable. She began skating at the age of five and quickly established herself as a prodigy, breaking records at national and international levels. By the age of 13, she became the youngest woman to land a triple axel in international competition, a feat that placed her firmly in figure skating history.
Her early career was defined by an intense focus on medals and accolades, but by her mid-teens, the pressure led her to step away from the sport to focus on herself and her personal growth. During her time off, Liu explored interests outside the rink, including one of her most surprising passions: manga and anime.
When she returned to competitive skating at 18, Liu approached the sport with a renewed mindset. She focused on enjoying the process rather than obsessing over medals, a mentality that translated into performances full of freedom, creativity, and emotional connection.
Her Olympic free skate, performed to Donna Summer's "MacArthur Park," captivated audiences and judges alike, combining technical difficulty with artistic expression.
Alysa Liu's top five anime and manga picks
Off the ice, Liu has become known for her genuine personality and her love of Japanese animation and graphic novels. She has shared her top five favorite anime and manga, giving fans a glimpse into her hobbies beyond skating.
Her favorites, listed in no particular order, include:
- Jujutsu Kaisen - A dark fantasy series full of supernatural battles and intense action sequences.
- Chainsaw Man - Known for its chaotic energy, unique storytelling, and unpredictable twists.
- Attack on Titan - An emotionally charged story of humanity fighting for survival against towering enemies.
- Madoka Magica - A magical girl series that surprises viewers with psychological depth and plot complexity.
- Soul Eater - A stylized adventure blending supernatural elements, quirky humor, and memorable characters.
These series demonstrate Liu's love for imaginative and emotionally engaging content. Whether she is executing triple axels on ice or immersing herself in a dramatic anime episode, Liu proves that elite athletes can have relatable passions outside of their sport.
Her openness about her interests helps fans connect with her on a more personal level, highlighting that champions can be both extraordinary and approachable at the same time.