American figure skater Alysa Liu takes early lead on opening night of world championships
American figure skater Alysa Liu made a triumphant return to the world championships on Wednesday, taking the lead after the short program with a stunning performance that left spectators in awe. The 19-year-old skater from Clovis, Calif., scored an impressive 74.58 points for her program, set to the song “Promise” by Laufey and Dan Wilson. This score is her best international score to date, showcasing her incredible talent and determination.
Liu, who had retired after the 2022 world championships, surprised everyone with her decision to make a comeback last year with her sights set on the Milano-Cortina Olympics. Her emotional reaction to her performance, fighting back tears and quivering lips, demonstrated just how much this competition means to her. Japanese skater Mone Chiba came in second with 73.44 points, while U.S. teammate Isabeau Levito, the reigning silver medallist, secured the third spot with 73.33 points.
Three-time defending world champion Kaori Sakamoto faced tough competition and landed in fifth place with 71.03 points as she aims to become the first skater to win four consecutive titles since the legendary Carol Heiss in the 1950s and ’60s. On the other hand, two-time defending U.S. champion Amber Glenn struggled with a fall on her opening triple axel and ended up in ninth place with 67.65 points.
In a surprising turn of events, Madeline Schizas of Oakville, Ont., delivered a season-best performance with a score of 69.18, placing her sixth after her flawless skate to “The Lion King” short program. Schizas is now in a good position to help Canada secure two quota spots for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics, with one spot already secured by her qualification for the free skate. The pressure is on for Schizas to finish in the top 10 and earn her country a second spot in the women’s event.
As the competition continues, all eyes are on the pairs short program, where Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps of Canada will defend their title against tough competition from around the world. The event will also feature the men’s competition and ice dance, with all medals set to be decided by Saturday night.
The world championships in Boston hold special significance this year, as the renowned Skating Club of Boston pays tribute to six members who tragically lost their lives in a recent accident. Skaters from across the globe hope to provide a cathartic experience for the grieving community, acknowledging the immense talent and potential of the young skaters lost in the tragedy.
Overall, the final world championships before the Milano-Cortina Olympics are crucial for establishing quotas for the Winter Games. The performance of each country’s best skaters in each discipline this week will determine the number of entries allowed for the Olympic competition. As the competition heats up, fans can expect to witness some breathtaking performances and fierce competition as skaters vie for glory on the world stage.
