Fortnite fan and Olympian Alysa Liu wants her own skin in the game

Polygon

by Chris Hayner

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Alysa Liu, the Team USA figure skating star who won two gold medals at the Winter Olympics, has turned her attention to another kind of prize: a Fortnite skin featuring her likeness. The 18-year-old athlete, known for her stunning performances on ice, is now hoping Epic Games will create a cosmetic skin inspired by her Olympic achievements and her passion for gaming. This unique crossover between sports and gaming highlights the growing intersection of athleticism and digital culture. Liu, who captured the world’s attention with her skating skills and bold personality, has been an outspoken fan of Fortnite in the past. During the Olympics, she even shared a playful tweet suggesting she was ready to jump back into the game once the competition was over. Now that she’s a two-time gold medalist, Liu is using her platform to advocate for a special treat for herself and her fans: a custom skin that reflects her skating style and Olympic spirit. The idea of an athlete collaborating with a gaming company isn’t entirely new, but Liu’s case adds a fresh layer of excitement. As one of the youngest and most influential figures in sports, she represents a generation of athletes who are deeply connected to gaming culture. Her desire for a Fortnite skin aligns with her broader appeal as a modern-day icon, blending athletics and entertainment seamlessly. For gamers, this story taps into the emotional connection many have with their favorite celebrities and influencers. The idea of seeing a real-life hero like Liu in the game adds a layer of excitement and personalization that resonates with fans. It also underscores the growing influence of esports and gaming as a cultural force, where athletes from traditional sports are increasingly drawn to the digital realm. Ultimately, Liu’s request for a Fortnite skin isn’t just about gaming—it’s about bridging the gap between athleticism and pop culture. Her story reminds us that gaming is more than just a pastime; it’s a space for creativity, inspiration,

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Originally published on Polygon on 2/23/2026