Olympic champion Alysa Liu announces a hiatus for the 2026-27 season

Alysa Liu, the 21-year-old who captured both team and individual gold at the Milano-Cortina Games, revealed via Instagram that she will skip the 2026-27 figure-skating season. Citing a desire to challenge herself and let her sport reflect her personal development, Liu said she plans to use the break to fine-tune her artistry. This marks her second major hiatus, the first occurring when she retired at 16 after placing seventh at the 2022 Olympics.

Since her Olympic victory, Liu has been busy with exhibitions, including the Stars on Ice tour, but did not compete at the March World Championships. Despite previously indicating she wanted to compete next season in a May interview with one outlet, she now feels a pause is best. Liu promised fans she will return and will cheer on her fellow skaters while she steps away.