World Champion Alysa Liu Takes Free Skate as US Wins World Team Trophy
In a breathtaking finale to the figure skating World Team Trophy, 19-year-old world champion Alysa Liu delivered a spectacular performance in the women’s free skate, propelling Team USA to its sixth gold medal at this prestigious event, held in Tokyo. Liu skated to the iconic “MacArthur Park” by Donna Summer, executing seven triple jumps and achieving a personal-best score of 150.97 points, solidifying her position as a rising star in the sport.
While Liu shone, her teammate Amber Glenn also put on an impressive display, finishing second with 148.93 points, showcasing her fantastic triple axel, which has become a consistent part of her repertoire in recent practices. Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto claimed third with a commendable score of 145.00 points, marking a fierce competition among the top female skaters.
Throughout the three-day event, Team USA dominated with a tally of 126 points, leaving Japan trailing by 16 points. Italy, making history, secured third place with 86 points — their first ever medal in the World Team Trophy. U.S. skater Jason Brown expressed immense pride in his team, stating, “We’re all beaming. It’s been an incredible season, and to end it here is truly special.”
In pairs, Canadian duo Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps clinched fourth, while fellow Canadians Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier finished second in both segments of ice dancing. Ultimately, Team Canada secured fifth place overall, rounding out a competitive event.
As the dust settled, the United States maintained a winning tradition at the World Team Trophy; they have medaled in all nine editions since the event began in 2009, reinforcing their stronghold in international figure skating.
With Guang Chen of Team France placing fourth and Georgia rounding out the standings, this event showcased the incredible talents of the skating world, promising a future filled with breathtaking performances and fierce rivalries.
