Oakland Honors Alysa Liu's Two 2026 Olympic Gold Medals

Thousands of cheering fans packed the streets outside Oakland City Hall to celebrate a history-making athlete who brought home not one, but two Olympic gold medals for Team USA.

Alysa Liu, Oakland's hometown figure skating champion, made history at the 2026 Winter Olympics by becoming the first American woman to win Olympic gold in figure skating in 24 years. The young athlete didn't stop at one medal, claiming two golds and ushering in what many are calling a new era for American figure skating.

The March 12th rally showcased Oakland's pride in full force. City Councilmember Ken Houston captured the moment perfectly: "Alysa Liu, she represented The Town! When she skated, she showed style, she showed finesse, she showed Oakland style."

Liu's achievement breaks a drought that stretched back to 2002, when an American woman last stood atop the Olympic podium in figure skating. Her dual gold medal performance has reinvigorated excitement around the sport across the country.

The Ripple Effect

Since returning home, Liu's impact has rippled throughout the Bay Area. A congratulatory billboard now towers over the city, and the Olympic champion has been spotted inspiring young athletes at her local ice rink where her own dreams first took shape.

Her visibility matters beyond medals. Young skaters across Oakland and beyond now see themselves reflected in an Olympic champion who grew up in their own backyard, training at their own rinks.

The celebration at City Hall represented more than athletic achievement. It showcased a community coming together to lift up one of their own, sending a powerful message that big dreams can start in any neighborhood.

Oakland style just won Olympic gold, and a new generation of figure skaters is watching.