In a stunning display of recognition, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has gifted a brand-new Tesla Model S to Alysa Liu, the young figure skater who made history by becoming the first American woman in 19 years to win the World Figure Skating Championship. This victory marks a monumental achievement for Liu and U.S. figure skating, solidifying her place as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
Liu, at just 16 years old, captivated the global audience with her flawless performances at the 2025 World Championships held in Tokyo. Her victory came after a near-perfect routine, showcasing her technical mastery, incredible jumps, and composure under pressure. Liu’s win ended a nearly two-decade-long drought for American women in the sport, with the last U.S. woman to secure the title being Tara Lipinski in 1997.
Elon Musk’s gesture, though unconventional, speaks volumes about his support for young talent across various fields. Known for his bold, often surprising moves, Musk reached out to Liu personally, offering her a Tesla as a token of his congratulations. The gift was a powerful acknowledgment of Liu’s breakthrough in the world of competitive figure skating, symbolizing not just her athletic prowess but also her potential to inspire future generations of athletes.
In a tweet, Liu expressed her excitement and gratitude, saying, “Still in disbelief! Thank you so much to @elonmusk for the incredible gift! It means the world to me and I’ll be sure to make good use of it.”
Musk’s gesture has been met with widespread praise. Many have lauded the billionaire entrepreneur for recognizing and celebrating achievement in a sport that often flies under the radar. In a world where corporate giants typically associate with business ventures and innovation, Musk’s recognition of Liu’s athletic success serves as a reminder that sports and technology can come together in meaningful ways.
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Liu’s victory and Musk’s generous gift have made waves in both the sports and tech worlds. As the 16-year-old continues to break records and achieve new heights, this moment is sure to be remembered as one of the defining milestones in her career — and an unforgettable gesture of encouragement from one of the world’s most influential figures.