Olympic Crushes: Alysa Liu and Amber Glenn Share Their Heartfelt Favorites

Reflecting on Olympic Bonds

As I immersed myself in the essence of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, the essence of sports transcended mere competition. Among the thrilling moments, the heartfelt revelations from U.S. figure skating stars Alysa Liu and Amber Glenn about their 'Olympic crushes' stood out. These athletes, admired for their exceptional skills and grace under pressure, took a moment to reveal the personal connections that fuel their inspiration and friendship.

Alysa Liu: A Gold Medalist's Perspective

Gold medalist Alysa Liu, known for her stunning performances on the ice, named a fellow Olympian as her 'crush.' Liu spoke about her admiration for gymnast Suni Lee, who won gold in Tokyo, emphasizing, "She's so pretty and very stylized. You know what I'm saying?" Liu's affection shows that admiration can go beyond the realm of competition, encompassing a genuine respect for artistry and personal style.

“I think my Olympic crush is probably Suni Lee. She's so pretty and very stylized.” – Alysa Liu

Amber Glenn: Celebrating Individuality

On the other hand, fellow skater Amber Glenn reflected on a broader spectrum of admiration, asserting, "I have many Olympic crushes. Laurie Hernandez." Glenn expressed a deep appreciation for Hernandez's openness about her identity and her vibrant personality, describing her as "a little bit of a nerd, just like me." This connection highlights the evolving landscape of sports, where individuality and authenticity are celebrated and recognized.

“I love that she's openly queer and that she is completely herself.” – Amber Glenn

Brittany Bowe's Heartfelt Engagement

The affectionate camaraderie extends even beyond the skating rink. Speed skater Brittany Bowe joined in the fun, humorously indicating her engagement to women's hockey captain Hilary Knight as a clear choice for her Olympic crush, saying, "There's no thinking outside the box on that one." Their engagement, announced just before Knight's team clinched gold over Canada, adds a touching layer of romance and commitment to the Olympics narrative.

Strength in Community

As I reflect on the relationships formed and the connections highlighted by these athletes, it becomes evident that the Olympic spirit is not merely about individual success but about the emotional ties that unite athletes across disciplines. Witnessing these figures openly express their admiration for one another gives us a glimpse into the culture of respect and affection that thrives within the sporting community.

A Record-Breaking Achievement

The United States didn't just shine in individual performances; collectively, the nation set a new standard at the Winter Olympics, bringing home an unprecedented 12 gold medals, a personal best for the country. This achievement, reflecting hard work and dedication, intertwines with the personal stories that make these events resonate deeply with fans and fellow athletes alike.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Sports

The stories of Liu, Glenn, and Bowe remind us that sports is about much more than medals and podiums; it's about the connections we form, the inspirations we draw from one another, and the joy we share. As fans, we not only celebrate their victories but also the relationships that blossom through shared dedication and passion. May these athletes continue to inspire us all, both on and off the ice!