Liu's Return: Can Former US Champion Recapture Glory?

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 3:34 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA, CHINA, ITALY, JAPAN, KAZAKHSTAN, RUSSIAN FEDERATION

A Spotlight on the Americans

The United States is fielding a strong team, with Kailani Broderick kicking things off for the nation at 9:31 a.m. ET. However, the skater garnering significant attention is undoubtedly Alysa Liu, who is scheduled to skate at 9:57 a.m. ET. Liu, a former US champion, has had a somewhat turbulent path to the Olympics, with periods of stepping away from the sport. Her return to competitive skating has been closely followed by fans and analysts alike, eager to see if she can recapture her former glory. Adding to the American presence is veteran Lauren Teter (11:02 a.m. ET) and the up-and-coming Sarah Wu (1:52 p.m. ET), creating a strong, three-pronged attack for Team USA.

Nagasu's Return and International Competition

The return of Mirai Nagasu to Olympic competition is another major storyline. Nagasu, a fan favorite and a key member of the 2018 US Olympic team that won a bronze medal, has overcome numerous challenges to once again qualify for the Games. Skating at 11:15 a.m. ET, Nagasu brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for captivating performances.

Beyond the American contingent, the competition is fierce. Japan's Rion Sumiyoshi and Miku Tomita, South Korea's Yelim Kim and Huyoung Lee, and Russia's Anastasiia Zueva and Daria Kiselevskaia, are all considered strong medal contenders. The presence of skaters like Isabella Pizzini of Italy, performing for her home crowd, adds an extra layer of excitement. The ROC athletes are competing under a neutral flag, a continuation of the restrictions imposed due to ongoing geopolitical situations.

How to Watch

For viewers in the United States, the women's short program is being broadcast on USA Network and streamed live on Peacock. International audiences should check their local listings for broadcast information. The broadcast will likely feature in-depth analysis from figure skating experts, providing viewers with insights into the technical elements and artistic impression of each performance.

What to Expect in the Short Program

The women's short program requires skaters to perform a specific set of elements, including a jumping pass, a spin combination, a step sequence, and a choreography sequence. These elements are evaluated based on technical merit and presentation. A well-executed short program can significantly impact a skater's overall score and chances of reaching the free skate final. Expect to see triple axels, triple-triple combinations, and intricate footwork as the skaters push the boundaries of the sport.

The stakes are high, and the pressure is immense. The athletes have dedicated years to honing their skills, and today, they have the opportunity to showcase their talent on the world's biggest stage. With a diverse field, compelling storylines, and a captivating display of athleticism and artistry, the women's figure skating short program is shaping up to be a highlight of the 2026 Winter Olympics.