Alysa Liu, the Oakland native who won gold in women's figure skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics, is changing the narrative around competition. Her "Alysa Liu mindset" emphasizes personal fulfillment and mental health over traditional competitive pressure, advocating for breaks and enjoyment of the sport. Retiring at 16 due to burnout after the 2022 Olympics, Liu returned in 2024, focusing on a healthier approach that resonated not just within sports but also highlighted youth mental health issues, particularly around burnout. Her story inspires others, like volleyball player Richard de la Garza, to redefine success on their own terms.

By the Numbers
  • 75.5% of Bay Area students report knowing peers struggling with high stress levels or burnout.
  • Over 70% of youth athletes quit organized sports by age 13 due to factors including burnout and injury.
State of Play
  • Liu's success has sparked discussions about the mental health crisis among youth athletes in the Bay Area.
  • The figure skating community is abuzz with her story, challenging conventional expectations about age and competition.
What's Next

Liu’s continued focus on balance in competition could inspire a wider movement towards prioritizing mental health in youth sports. Her influence may lead to changes in training approaches within figure skating and beyond.

Bottom Line

Alysa Liu’s journey underscores the importance of mental health and balance in competitive sports, proving that success can be redefined on personal terms, offering a powerful model for aspiring athletes.