Olympic Champion Alysa Liu Sits Out World Championships
Prague, Czech Republic – Figure skating sensation Alysa Liu has withdrawn from the upcoming World Championships, just weeks after securing Olympic gold at the Milano Cortina Games. The 20-year-classic Liu, who became the first American woman to win Olympic gold in women’s singles since 2002, announced the decision on social media Sunday, citing “exciting things happening” and a need for time to focus on them. Sarah Everhardt will replace Liu on the U.S. Team for the championships, which initiate March 24th in Prague. Liu’s withdrawal follows similar announcements from Japan’s Olympic pairs champions, Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara.
Alysa Liu Shocks Figure Skating World with World Championships Withdrawal
United States Olympic champion Alysa Liu has unexpectedly withdrawn from the upcoming World Figure Skating Championships, the 20-year-traditional announced Sunday via Instagram. This decision comes as a surprise to many, given her recent triumphant return to the sport and her status as a dominant force in women’s singles.
A Golden Return Cut Short
Liu etched her name in U.S. Figure skating history at the recent Milano Cortina Games, becoming the first American woman since 2002 to secure Olympic gold in women’s singles. Her victory marked a stunning comeback for the skater, who briefly stepped away from competition following the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
Previously, Liu had likewise demonstrated her prowess by winning the 2025 world title in Boston, ending a decade-long drought for American women in the world championships. She also contributed to Team USA’s gold medal win in the Olympic team event.
“Exciting Things Happening” – What’s Next for Liu?
“As some of yall already know, I withdrew from Worlds,” Liu posted on Instagram. “There’s been a lot of exciting things happening since my return from Milan, so I’m taking some time for that … see yall next season.” She offered no further explanation, leaving fans and analysts speculating about her future plans.
Pro Tip: Prioritizing Mental Health
Elite athletes often face immense pressure. Liu’s decision highlights the growing importance of prioritizing mental and emotional well-being alongside physical training. Taking time to focus on personal matters can be crucial for long-term success and happiness.
Everhardt Steps In
U.S. Figure Skating has announced that Sarah Everhardt will replace Liu on the American team for the championships, which are scheduled to take place in Prague from March 24-29. Bradie Tennell was initially the first alternate, but she declined the opportunity.
A Trend of Post-Olympic Withdrawals
Liu is not alone in opting out of the world championships following the Olympic Games. Japan’s Olympic pairs champions, Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara, have also withdrawn from the competition. This trend suggests a potential shift in athlete priorities, with some choosing to focus on rest, recovery and personal pursuits after the intense demands of the Olympics.
This phenomenon mirrors patterns seen in other sports, such as swimming and track and field, where athletes often take extended breaks after major championships. The physical and mental toll of Olympic-level competition is significant, and athletes are increasingly recognizing the need for adequate recovery time.
The Future of Figure Skating: Balancing Competition and Well-being
The withdrawals of Liu and the Japanese pair raise questions about the future of competitive figure skating. Will we see more athletes prioritizing long-term health and personal fulfillment over relentless competition? The sport is evolving, and athletes are becoming more empowered to make choices that align with their individual needs.
Did you know?
Alysa Liu’s Olympic gold medal ended a 20-year drought for American women in the sport, with Sarah Hughes being the last to win in 2002.
FAQ
Q: Why did Alysa Liu withdraw from the World Championships?
A: Liu stated she is taking time for “exciting things happening” since her return from the Olympics, but did not provide further details.
Q: Who will replace Alysa Liu on the U.S. Team?
A: Sarah Everhardt will take Liu’s place.
Q: When and where are the World Figure Skating Championships being held?
A: The championships are scheduled for March 24-29 in Prague.
Q: Is this a common occurrence after the Olympics?
A: It is not uncommon for Olympic champions to skip the following World Championships, as seen with other athletes in various sports.
Don’t miss out on the latest figure skating news and analysis! Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for updates.