Alysa Liu Rises to Third While Amber Glenn Falls to 13th at 2026 Winter Olympics
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, the women’s figure skating competition delivered both triumph and heartbreak for Team USA. Alysa Liu surged into third place after a commanding short program, placing herself firmly in medal contention. In contrast, Amber Glenn endured a difficult skate that left her in 13th heading into the next phase. The dramatic swing in fortunes underscored the unforgiving nature of Olympic competition.
The short program segment, held in Milan, featured some of the world’s most technically gifted skaters. With judges scrutinizing every jump, spin, and step sequence, even minor mistakes proved costly. For the American team, expectations were high after strong showings in recent international events. The opening round ultimately revealed both resilience and vulnerability within the squad.
Liu’s performance stood out for its polish and precision from the opening notes of her music. She executed her jumping passes with confidence and demonstrated smooth transitions between elements. Her combination of technical content and artistic expression resonated strongly with the judging panel. By the end of her routine, she had secured a score that positioned her just behind the event’s leading contenders.
Glenn, meanwhile, began her skate with intensity and ambition, attempting one of the most challenging jumps in women’s figure skating. Although she completed the high-risk element, subsequent mistakes disrupted her momentum. A flawed landing on a later jump dramatically reduced her technical score. The cumulative impact of those errors pushed her down the standings.
Liu’s Medal Push Gains Momentum
Liu’s third-place standing carries significant weight for the United States. The nation has been seeking a return to the women’s Olympic podium after years of near misses. Her calm demeanor and steady execution suggested she is prepared for the pressure of the free skate. Analysts noted that her base value and component scores keep her within striking distance of silver or even gold.
Her program reflected months of meticulous preparation and strategic planning. Coaches crafted choreography designed to highlight her strengths while maximizing scoring potential. Every spin level and step sequence was carefully constructed to gain valuable points. The result was a skate that blended athleticism with artistry in a way that elevated her above much of the field.
Beyond the technical marks, Liu’s performance energized American fans in attendance and those watching worldwide. Social media buzzed with praise for her composure under Olympic pressure. Commentators emphasized her maturity and growth since earlier international appearances. That sense of evolution has made her one of the standout athletes of these Games.
Still, the competition remains fierce, with top skaters from Japan and Europe occupying the leading spots. The margin separating first through third is narrow, leaving little room for error. Liu will need another near-flawless performance in the free skate to maintain her podium position. The stakes could not be higher as she prepares for the final round.
Glenn’s Emotional Setback
For Glenn, the outcome was a stark reminder of how quickly Olympic dreams can shift. After successfully landing her opening triple Axel, she appeared poised for a breakthrough moment. However, the under-rotation and subsequent deduction on her next jumping pass proved costly. Judges awarded no points for that flawed element, a setback from which she could not fully recover.
The emotional toll was visible as she exited the ice, clearly disappointed in her performance. Coaches and teammates offered support as she processed the result. Despite the tears, Glenn’s resilience remains one of her defining traits. She has overcome challenges before and will look to channel that determination in the free skate.
Her 13th-place position still qualifies her for the next segment of the competition. While a medal may now be out of reach, a strong free skate could significantly improve her overall ranking. Athletes often deliver their most inspired performances after adversity. Glenn’s focus will now shift toward finishing the Olympics with pride.
The moment also highlights the razor-thin margins in elite figure skating. A single under-rotated jump can alter the entire trajectory of a program. Technical precision must align perfectly with timing and artistry. In such a demanding arena, consistency becomes the ultimate competitive advantage.
Team USA’s Broader Outlook
The United States entered the Games with three strong contenders in the women’s event. Alongside Liu and Glenn, teammate Isabeau Levito delivered a steady performance that placed her within the top ten after the short program. Having all three Americans advance to the free skate demonstrates the team’s overall depth. It also keeps multiple storylines alive as the competition unfolds.
Team officials expressed cautious optimism following the event. While Glenn’s struggles were disappointing, Liu’s podium position provides hope for a medal finish. Levito’s placement adds another opportunity for upward movement in the standings. Together, the trio reflects the next generation of American figure skating talent.
Internationally, the competition remains intense. Japanese skaters currently lead the standings, showcasing exceptional technical consistency. European athletes are also within close reach of the podium. The final results will hinge on execution under immense Olympic pressure.
Looking ahead, the free skate promises high drama and emotional performances. Longer programs mean more elements and greater scoring potential, but they also increase the risk of mistakes. Endurance, mental focus, and strategic planning will all play decisive roles. For Liu, Glenn, and their competitors, the final skate offers one last chance to define their Olympic legacy.
