Alysa Liu achieved a significant milestone in her career by clinching gold at the 2025 Skate America event, held in Lake Placid, New York. The 20-year-old skater delivered a powerful free skate that secured her first Skate America title.
Alysa Liu’s Moment at Skate America
The competition took place on November 16, 2025. Despite her modest assessment of her performance, Liu impressed the audience and judges alike. She believed her skate included minor mistakes that could have impacted her score. Nonetheless, her efforts led to a final score of 140.54, marking her season best.
- Date: November 16, 2025
- Location: Herb Brooks Arena, Lake Placid, NY
- Score: 140.54 (Free Skate)
In her emotional short program the previous day, Liu received a standing ovation from the audience. This moment deeply resonated with her, showcasing her connection to the sport and her dedication. She expressed a willingness to improve, indicating that future performances would feature her popular Lady Gaga medley.
Rinka Watanabe’s Performance
Japanese skater Rinka Watanabe, although finishing in second place with a score of 136.61, showcased impressive triple axels during her routine. Despite an early stumble, she remained competitive, finishing just over three points behind Liu.
Chock and Bates Dominate Ice Dance
In addition to Liu’s success, the ice dance duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates also shone brightly at the event. The married couple secured their fifth Skate America title, further solidifying their legacy in figure skating.
- Team: Madison Chock and Evan Bates
- Final Score: 212.58 points
- Margin Over Second Place: 15 points
Chock and Bates delivered a captivating rhythm dance to a Lenny Kravitz medley, followed by an intense free dance performed with precision. Their remarkable performances earned them high scores, reinforcing their status as top contenders heading into the Grand Prix finals.
Future Prospects for Liu, Chock, and Bates
Liu’s victory and the success of Chock and Bates signal a promising future for American figure skating. As the athletes prepare for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, their experiences at Skate America will serve as a crucial part of their preparations.
With Liu aiming for Olympic qualification and Chock and Bates seeking their first ice dance medal, the 2025 Skate America event marked a pivotal moment in their athletic journeys.
