BOSTON – In a stunning comeback, Alysa Liu has become the first U.S. woman in nearly two decades to win a world figure skating title, achieving this remarkable feat after a two-year hiatus from the sport.

At just 19 years old, Liu captured the championship with a total score of 222.97 points, outperforming previous three-time world champion Kaori Sakamoto of Japan by nearly five points. Bronze went to fellow Japanese skater Mone Chiba. "I'm not going to lie, this is an insane story," Liu expressed in an NBC Sports interview, reflecting on her unexpected return to the world of competitive figure skating.

Liu’s victory marks a significant milestone for U.S. figure skating, as she is the first American woman to win the title since Kimmie Meissner in 2006. In addition to Liu's success, this championship has been a historic moment for the U.S. team, with Isabeau Levito finishing fourth and Amber Glenn placing fifth, resulting in three American women in the top five for the first time since 2001.

This outstanding performance puts them all in contention for the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympic Games, with hopes of becoming the first U.S. woman to secure Olympic singles gold since Sarah Hughes triumphed in 2002.

Despite her young age, Liu's journey has been remarkably storied. She made headlines in 2019 as the youngest U.S. champion at just 13, and after securing a world bronze in 2022, she initially stepped away from the sport, disillusioned by the pressures it presented. However, her rejuvenation came after an adventurous trek in the Himalayas, during which she rediscovered her love for skating.

Liu showcased her remarkable technical ability during her championship performance, landing seven triple jumps with all 12 elements receiving positive evaluations. Notably, her free skate score of 148.39 was a personal best by nearly 17 points, an impressive feat considering she entered the competition seeded eighth based on her international scores.

Isabeau Levito, the 2024 World silver medalist, also delivered a commendable performance. After missing most of the previous season due to a foot injury, she fought back during her free skate, demonstrating resilience despite a fall in her opening routine.

"I missed a large part of the season and felt like it was (wasted), but after how this competition went, I honestly don’t even remember that part," Levito said, reflecting her relief and pride in her performance.

Amber Glenn, who improved from ninth place after the short program, managed to land the only attempt of a triple Axel in the competition, further highlighting the growing strength of U.S. women's figure skating.

"I was really proud of the fight that I had out there, and that I stayed calm and finished on a positive note on the season," Glenn remarked after securing her best worlds finish in three appearances.

As the figure skating world eagerly anticipates the conclusion of the championships with the free dance and men's free skate events scheduled for later today, Liu’s victory has reignited hope and enthusiasm within the U.S. figure skating community, celebrating not just a title, but a new chapter brimming with potential for the upcoming Olympic season.