Alysa Liu: Hope-Core on Ice

Cover Photo Credit: SpiritedMichelle

American Olympic Champion Alysa Liu went viral after her incredible performances in the 2026 Winter Olympics following her return from retirement. Her personality enthralled many, who began calling her a “symbol of hope,” and creating “hope core” videos of her.

Alysa Liu had already built a highly successful skating career, being the youngest U.S. figure skater in history and then becoming a world champion at age 13. She continued to persist in competitions and skating events until the age of sixteen when she announced her retirement. 

Alysa Liu’s retirement was a shock to the nation; however, she revealed she did it for her mental well-being. She has voiced how being on the rink since the age of five put a lot of pressure on her and in the end she developed PTSD, and anxiety at the sight of ice rinks. The San Francisco Chronicle in an interview, she said:

“I have no regrets … I’m sure it’d be the opposite if I had stayed.”

Fortunately, her retirement lasted only two years, and she returned to the rink at the age of eighteen. This time, Alysa Liu became an advocate for herself, unwilling to allow people to dictate her diet and training sessions—a problem that influenced her retirement—and an ongoing issue among professional athletes. She has expressed in interviews with CBC news that “No one’s gonna starve me … [or] tell me what I can and can’t eat.”

This led her to participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics, where she won two gold medals, followed by two Japanese skaters Kaori Sakamoto (silver) and Ami Nakai (bronze). 

Liu’s performance was graceful, elegant, and beautiful; she sensationally executed her routine to Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park” with a score of 222.79. This victory was monumental for the Americans, as she won the first individual Olympic medal for American women in figure skating since 2006. 

Since her victory, Liu and her story has inspired viewers. Born in the United States, and the daughter of a Chinese immigrant, her father fought valiantly for the rights of Chinese people as a political activist. Liu has dedicated her life to this craft and put a new and optimistic perspective on what it means to be a “winner,” voicing how “there’s no way to lose.” With the ongoing anti-immigrant sentiment ICE has perpetuated, and other obstacles that hinder feminist pursuits in the States, the daughter of an immigrant winning such an honor for her country holds a large impact for underrepresented voices. 

Her fame only progressed on social media, as her Instagram account now has a whopping 7.5 million followers. She focuses on posting her personal journey on this account, allowing fans insight on her life and her gaining more opportunities in modeling and interviews. Her fans are making an impact on her success as well, posting edits and “hope core” videos which have been trending and gaining millions of likes. 

Momooreoluwa Salami, an 18-year old track athlete majoring in Arts at the University of New Brunswick, expressed her perspective as a female athlete, and the impact Alyssa Liu has on the culture in women’s sports:

“Having a female athlete is super important because representation matters … Seeing someone who is great at their sport and has the same body as me makes me more comfortable and resists the narrative that girls aren’t built for sports.”

Momooreoluwa expanded her thoughts and how Alysa has changed how people view athletes:

“Alysa Liu’s story opposes the narrative of ‘hustle and grind’ culture celebrated among athletes … People have always defined work as the amount of pain put in, but she’s returning with love and joy.”

Momooreoluwa ended her thoughts with her personal experience with Alysa Liu’s story:

“Her comeback is a lesson to me and all athletes, that pressure is not a necessary requirement for greatness and joy belongs in sports.” 

Alysa Liu activating for her own personal autonomy and being relatable for her Gen Z audience has created a sense of hope for those who watch her. It’s clear that through her integrity and determination, Alysa Liu has inspired many viewers and athletes. Liu’s performances are a must-watch, and we highly recommend you check them out online to show your support for this symbol of hope.