Alysa Liu was one of the stars of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The 20-year-old United States figure skater took home the gold medal in the women's free skate competition. Liu instantly became one of the top American athletes at the 2026 Winter Games. She became the first American woman to win an individual gold medal in figure skating at the Olympics since 2002, breaking a 24-year drought for the United States in the Games.
But will Liu be back in 2030?
Liu was asked about her future plans following the 2026 Winter Games.
© Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Liu, who has taken some breaks throughout her career, indicated that she will probably be taking another one.
"Taking breaks is OK, and yeah, sometimes taking a step back is what's needed to see the full picture," she said.
Liu, though, very much plans on skating competitively again.
"Well, I can't imagine not skating next year," she said. "That's what I'll say."
Liu has been open about her struggles during her career
Liu announced her retirement from the sport in 2022, at just 16 years of age. She had had enough. However, Liu would end up making a triumphant return to figure skating a couple of years later, in 2024.
The American figure skater won the 2025 World Championships and added an impressive gold medal at the 2026 Winter Games.
Now, all eyes are on 2030 - and it sounds like Liu is planning on returning to defend her gold medal.