Olympic Sensation Alysa Liu Swaps Ice For Surf: Discover Her Next Big Wave

Trading Ice for Waves: Alysa Liu's New Adventure

Alysa Liu, the 20-year-old figure skating phenom who dazzled audiences with her gold-winning performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics, is back in her Oakland hometown contemplating her next big move. Her incredible achievements in women's singles and the team event have entrenched her name in the annals of figure skating history. But now, Liu is setting her sights on the surf.

In an interview with People magazine, Alysa shared her surprising interest in surfing. "I heard that surfing was really similar to skating and skiing," she revealed. "In the way that we glide. There's not many activities in life where you feel the glide, and I recently heard surfing was one of them. So I really want to try that out."

"I heard that surfing was really similar to skating and skiing," Alysa told People magazine. "There's not many activities in life where you feel the glide, and I recently heard surfing was one of them."

Finding the Perfect Wave

With its diverse and year-round surf scene, the San Francisco Bay Area offers Alysa plenty of options to test her skills on the water. Spots like Pacifica (Linda Mar) and Bolinas are perfect for beginners, while a short road trip to Kelly Slater's Surf Ranch offers a unique inland surfing experience.

Alysa's journey to this point has been nothing short of inspirational. After retiring at 16 due to burnout, she reignited her passion for the ice following a ski trip that reminded her of the thrill of gliding. Her comeback at the 2025 World Championships resulted in a stunning gold medal victory, proving her resilience and determination.

Living Life on Her Own Terms

The young athlete's experiences have shaped her current outlook on life and sport. "I would live at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado, in a dorm by myself," she shared with AP, illustrating the solitary nature of competitive training. "I didn't go anywhere. I didn't see anything. I was just there. And so all that, I was like, 'Skating is not worth it.'"

These days, Liu embraces a more balanced lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of time spent with loved ones. "I will always pick hanging out with my friends over a session," she told Teen Vogue, reflecting her shift in priorities. "And if that makes me a worse skater, so be it."

On her triumphant return at the Olympics on February 19, legendary skaters like Tenley Albright, Dorothy Hamill, and Sara Hughes gathered to cheer her on. Albright, marking the 70th anniversary of her own Olympic victory, was a poignant presence, bridging generations of skating excellence.

As Alysa Liu stands poised on the brink of her next chapter, she embodies the spirit of California's laid-back yet driven vibe, embracing change with the same grace and strength she shows on the ice.