After a successful performance at the Olympics in Milan, where the 20-year-old athlete won medals in both the team event and women's singles skating, an unexpected incident occurred. During the exuberant celebrations, her medal detached from its ribbon and fell onto a hard surface, sustaining noticeable damage.
As the figure skater herself recounted, during a joyful jump, the medal's attachment could not withstand the load. Although this "battle-worn" piece is very dear to her, Alice decided to take the opportunity to request a duplicate. According to information, the organizers of the Olympics usually accommodate athletes regarding the replacement of damaged awards, although the regulations do not require the return of the original.
At these Games, Liu demonstrated outstanding results: in the team competition, she represented the USA alongside Ilia Malinin, and in the individual competition, she scored over 226 points, surpassing competitors such as Japanese skater Kaori Sakamoto.
Incidents involving damaged medals are not uncommon in world sports. Similar cases have previously occurred with other athletes when medals could not withstand the emotional intensity of victory celebrations. The replacement of a medal is purely technical and does not affect the official results of the competitions.
