“Blade Angels” is a very fitting title for the U.S.’s current Women’s Olympic figure skating team, made up of Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito. The three women are described as being one of the strongest American teams in years.
Liu is the youngest U.S. National Champion at only age 13, and has been an Olympic competitor since age 16. Glenn is a three-time (consecutive) U.S. National Champion, and the fourth American woman to ever land a triple axel in an international competition, and Levito is the 2022 World Champion, and World Junior Champion.
All three women make a very promising team, bringing home gold, silver, and bronze medals.
While their talents on ice are undeniable, the trio also has an undeniable stage presence everywhere they go.
In recent years, ice skating’s reputation has grown rather tragic, with many instances of poor sportsmanship — even between teammates– as well as abuse and substance issues. With their genuine friendship, these girls are helping to remove what Olympian, Adam Rippon, describes as a “dark cloud” that hovers over the sport.
Particularly Liu, who rocks her signature striped hair look. A bold choice, considering many ice skaters are condemned for showing any sign of individuality. Liu herself was previously subjected to such criticism – causing her to almost quit figure skating altogether. Instead, she decided she wouldn’t let any coach dictate her life any longer. It was hers to do as she pleased.
“I do this every year,” Liu expressed in an interview with NBC New York. “I add a stripe, so it’s going to be like this for a year.” She’s been keeping the tradition of adding a halo to her hair strong since 2023, and it doesn’t seem to be something she plans to drop anytime soon.
Whether it be hair, clothes, or even dietary restrictions, Liu’s rejection of traditional ice skating expectations will continue long after she leaves the ice. All three women are redefining the sport, Liu’s just doing it one bleached stripe at a time.
