Alysa Liu knows how to stay true to her needs. The Olympic gold medalist has remained loyal to her boundaries since retiring from the sport at 16 in 2022, before returning better than ever two years later.
Now, the star announced a new era in her life that won't include participating in ice skating contests on a global scale for the meantime.
The athlete shared a picture of her beachside silhouette during a sunset on social media, along with the statement: "To my supporters, while people are announcing programs, imma take this time to announce that I will not be competing this season."
© InstagramAlysa explained that she's using her break to continue evolving on a personal level, which she'll showcase later down the line through the sport.
She added: "I always want to challenge myself in new ways, so my artistry & skating can evolve. It's important to me that my sport reflects my personal growth. I'm gonna take the time to recalibrate, fine-tune things & whatnot."
The performer expressed that although she's taking a pause, it won't be the last time we'll see her out on the ice, as she concluded: "So fear not, I'll be back, & in the meantime I'll be rooting for my teammates near & far. See y'all soon!!"
© Getty ImagesFans react to Alysa's big career move
Fans showed nothing less than support for the Olympian, as they flocked to the comments to cheer on the star's bold move.
Fellow ice skater Amber Glenn wrote: "Taking time so you can live life to the fullest and do things your way. Love you girl."
She proudly added in a follow-up comment: "Her way being how she Won GPF, Worlds & Olympics, so I think her way works pretty damn well."
One follower continued: "Taking time to grow and evolve is part of the journey. Looking forward to seeing what's next."
A second fan commented: "Yes Alysa, everyone needs time to enjoy and make the most of their personal life."
A third person added: "You've done great so far. Take some time, do what's best for you, I know you'll come back stronger!"
© Getty ImagesAlysa's comeback story
The star began skating at five and had a rigorous and demanding training schedule, which sadly left Alysa with massive burnout during her teen years.
She decided it was time for a major shift, and she announced her retirement, revealing on social media, in part: "I feel so satisfied with how my skating career has gone. Now that I'm finally done with my goals in skating I'm going to be moving on with my life."
During her two year break, she explored her identity outside of her profession, discovered new hobbies, and rested.
When she went on a skiing trip, she realized she missed the adrenaline that ice skating once brought her, which reinvigorated her love for it.
© Getty ImagesShe came back recharged and reinspired, gave jaw-dropping performances, and took home gold during the recent Winter Olympics.
Alysa exclusively spoke with HELLO! about reuniting with fellow ice skaters Amber and Isabeau Levito for their group number during the Stars on Ice Tour, following their major success at the Olympics.
The star revealed: "I have fun when I'm on the ice for competition, but I have in shows because we have group numbers. It's been really fun rehearsing with everyone every day. I think that's the best part of it."
Alysa added: "We have some really fun group numbers [that] I'm really excited about. We're kind of synchro-skating honestly."
