Alysa Liu, the 20-year-old figure skating prodigy from Team USA, shone brightly at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, where she won two gold medals, marking America's first victory in women's figure skating events in over twenty years. Her remarkable return from retirement captured the hearts of fans and the attention of media worldwide, making her a standout at the Games.

However, amid her joy, a mishap occurred when the ribbon of her first gold medal broke, causing the medal itself to detach. This incident was not unique to Liu; fellow athlete Breezy Johnson also reported a similar issue, highlighting a flaw in the design or quality of the medals awarded at the Games. Liu's delightful skating program and personal story were overshadowed for a moment by the unforeseen complication regarding her accolade.

As a result, Liu had to return the broken medal for a replacement, an act that reflects the challenges even top athletes face amidst their triumphs. This incident draws attention not only to the technical aspects of the Winter Olympics but also underlines the intense scrutiny and public interest in athletes' performances and their achievements, sparking a wider discussion regarding the Olympic experience and the significance of the awards bestowed upon competitors.