Alysa Liu Credits Taylor Swift for Olympic Success at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards

Alysa Liu, a 20-year-old figure skater, achieved remarkable success at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, winning two gold medals: one in women's singles figure skating and another in the team event with Team USA. Liu attributed part of her success to Taylor Swift, who narrated a video introducing her and her fellow skaters, Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito, collectively known as the "Blade Angels." During the iHeartRadio Music Awards on March 26, 2026, Liu presented Swift with the Artist of the Year award and expressed her gratitude, stating, "She is the G.O.A.T. of music... I gotta say, I think that's why we won."

Alysa Liu Credits Taylor Swift for Olympic Figure Skating Gold Medal WinPeople MagazineNewsweekNBC SportsOlympic champ Alysa Liu praises Taylor Swift at iHeartRadio Music AwardsNewsweekSports IllustratedBillboardBillboard

In the video narrated by Swift, she referred to Liu and her teammates as "three American showgirls on ice," highlighting their individual stories and struggles. Swift praised Liu's journey, noting her return to skating after a brief hiatus following the 2022 Beijing Games. Liu's comeback was characterized by joy and self-expression, which resonated with audiences and contributed to her Olympic victories. Swift's involvement in the Olympics and her support for the skaters played a significant role in their emotional and motivational journey.

Alysa Liu Credits Taylor Swift for Olympic Figure Skating Gold Medal Win

At the iHeartRadio Music Awards, Swift was the standout winner, taking home seven awards, including Album of the Year for *The Life of a Showgirl* and Best Pop Album. Liu's presentation of the Artist of the Year award to Swift was met with a standing ovation, reflecting the admiration both artists command. Swift, visibly moved by Liu's praise, expressed her happiness in receiving the award from the young Olympian, stating, "You brought me so much happiness with your performances."

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Liu remarked on her experience at the awards, saying, "It was really cool, and her speech was really good. I was inspired by it." Swift, in her acceptance speech, emphasized the importance of nurturing one's passion and craft, sharing her own experiences as a young artist. She encouraged her peers to take their time in developing their skills, stating, "Give yourself time to make mistakes. Give yourself time to hone your craft."

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While the event celebrated Liu's achievements and Swift's accolades, some critics argue that attributing Liu's success solely to Swift's narration oversimplifies the hard work and dedication required to win Olympic medals. They emphasize that Liu's talent and perseverance were the primary factors in her victories.

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Following her Olympic success, Liu has confirmed plans to return to competitive skating, aiming to defend her titles at the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps. She is also set to participate in the Stars on Ice skating tour beginning in April 2026.

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• “I’ve got to say, I think that’s why we won.” — Alysa Liu, Olympic Figure Skater

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• “You brought me so much happiness and everyone else so much happiness with your performances.” — Taylor Swift, Artist of the Year

Billboard

This intersection of sports and music highlights the powerful influence of artists like Taylor Swift on athletes' journeys, showcasing how inspiration can come from unexpected places.

Olympic champ Alysa Liu praises Taylor Swift at iHeartRadio Music Awards