Alysa Liu, the talented Olympic figure skater, made headlines when she decided to take a break from the ice after the 2022 Winter Olympics. At just 16, burnout took its toll, leading her to retire and embrace a more typical teenage life. Liu explored what it meant to be an ordinary high school student, from driving her siblings to school to hiking in the Himalayas. She even ventured into skiing, discovering freedom in the cold air reminiscent of her skating days.
Two years later, while visiting a local ice rink, Alysa felt the familiar spark of passion awaken once again. A phone call to her former coach, Phillip DiGuglielmo, kickstarted her dramatic comeback. After some convincing, DiGuglielmo agreed to train her, despite his initial reservations. In just seven months, Liu defied the odds and secured her first world title at the 2025 Saatva Skate America.
Alysa’s inspiring journey resonates with anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed and needed to step back. Her story reminds us that taking time off doesn’t mean the end; sometimes, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter and a thrilling comeback. What will she conquer next?
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
