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Alysa Liu Makes Highly Anticipated Olympic Return

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 20:51 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CHINA, CANADA

Milan, Italy - February 20th, 2026 - The spotlight is firmly on Alysa Liu today as she makes her highly anticipated return to Olympic competition at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan. After a surprising hiatus from the sport, the former junior sensation is aiming to prove she still possesses the skill and artistry to contend for a medal in the women's figure skating event. Liu will take to the ice today in the Short Program, scheduled for 10:00 AM EST, followed by the Free Skate on February 22nd at 2:00 PM EST. The event is garnering significant attention, not just for Liu's comeback story, but also the competitive landscape of Team USA's skaters.

Liu's journey to the Olympics has been anything but conventional. She stunned the figure skating world in 2019 by becoming the youngest U.S. champion at just 13 years old, showcasing a rare combination of technical prowess and expressive performance. Many predicted a dominant career, but Liu unexpectedly stepped away from competitive skating, citing the intense pressure and a need to focus on her personal wellbeing. Her return has sparked intense curiosity and speculation: can she recapture the magic that made her a star, and has the time away allowed her to mature as an athlete and a performer?

A Competitive Field for Team USA

While all eyes might be drawn to Liu's narrative, Team USA boasts a strong roster of female skaters. Leading the charge currently is Madison Hockning, who has consistently delivered solid performances, earning a current top score of 228.53. Isabella Schneider is closely behind with 221.12, proving to be a strong contender as well. Liu's current score of 215.78 places her within striking distance, but she will need to deliver flawless programs to climb the ranks.

The depth of talent within Team USA signals a promising future for the sport. Coaches and analysts believe that the competition amongst the skaters has pushed them all to elevate their performances. Hockning and Schneider have benefitted from Liu's absence, honing their skills and gaining valuable competitive experience. However, Liu's sheer potential adds an unpredictable element to the equation.

The Pressure is On

The pressure on Liu is immense. Not only is she representing the United States on the world's biggest stage, but she's also carrying the weight of expectation from fans who remember her earlier successes. The break from competition raises questions about her consistency and stamina. Can she handle the mental and physical demands of the Olympic Games after a period away from the intense training regimen?

Experts suggest that Liu's advantage may lie in her renewed perspective. The time away may have allowed her to rediscover her passion for the sport and approach competition with a healthier mindset. Many young athletes struggle with the pressures of elite competition, and Liu's decision to prioritize her wellbeing could prove to be a key factor in her success.

How to Follow the Competition

For viewers eager to witness Liu's Olympic return and the unfolding drama of the women's figure skating competition, the event is being streamed live on Peacock. Fans can also follow live updates, scores, and analysis on various sports websites and social media platforms. The Short Program today will set the stage for the Free Skate on Sunday, where the medalists will be determined. The competition is expected to be fierce, with skaters from Russia, Japan, and Canada also vying for podium positions.

Beyond the scores and technical elements, the women's figure skating competition is a display of artistry, athleticism, and emotional expression. Alysa Liu's story adds a compelling layer to this already captivating event, and fans around the world will be watching to see if she can write a new chapter in her remarkable career.