Liu, Chock and Bates Earn Historic Gold Medals at Saatva Skate America
In a display of high-octane talent and dedication, reigning World champions Alysa Liu and the ice dance duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates clinched gold on Day 3 of the 2025 Saatva Skate America event, held in the iconic Herb Brooks Arena in Lake Placid, New York. Liu marked a historic stride, becoming the first U.S. woman to win the Skate America title at an international event since Ashley Wagner in 2016.
With this victory, Liu secured her first Grand Prix gold medal and a spot in the upcoming ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final 2025 in Nagoya, Japan. After an intense short program that left her in second place by a mere fraction, Liu delivered a breathtaking free skate set to “MacArthur Park” by Donna Summer. Her season-high free skate score of 140.54 brought her to a total of 214.27 points, winning by 3.31 points.
“It does mean a lot that I am able to be at such a big competition like the Grand Prix,” Liu expressed. “I’m motivated to work harder on my jumps and running my programs for the next challenge.”
In ice dance, Chock and Bates triumphed with their fifth Skate America title, equaling the record held by Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto for the most titles. Their fluid routine to “Paint It Black” earned them an impressive 212.58 overall score, comfortably ahead by 15.42 points.
Chock shared, “Skate America is very close to our hearts. We enjoyed our entire week here.”
Following this triumphant event, multiple skaters showcased their potential, including Starr Andrews, who delivered a personal-best free skate score of 130.90, while Josephine Lee wrapped up her first Grand Prix event with promising performances.
The U.S. has now clinched 16 out of the last 17 gold medals at this premier event, solidifying their dominance in figure skating. As athletes prepare for subsequent competitions, all eyes will be on the next Grand Prix Final as they aim to continue their winning streak.
As the season progresses, fans eagerly anticipate more dramatic performances and historic achievements in the world of professional figure skating!
