A recent social media post featuring the Team USA figure skating star has reportedly racked up millions of views, with much of the attention focused on a glimpse of her back tattoo and a noticeable smiley-face piercing. What might have otherwise been a routine appearance quickly turned into heated debate after some viewers speculated that the tattoo resembled “Baphomet,” a symbol often misunderstood and frequently associated with occult imagery in internet discourse.
The reaction spread fast.
Comment sections filled with strong opinions, with some users making bold claims about symbolism without confirmation of what the tattoo actually represents. Others pushed back, arguing that the online outrage said more about viral culture than about Liu herself.
Notably, Liu has not publicly described the tattoo as Baphomet or confirmed that interpretation. In many cases, stylized art can be misidentified — especially in low-resolution or partial images circulating online. Tattoo artists often incorporate abstract, mythological, or purely aesthetic elements that viewers may project meaning onto.
The “backlash” appears to stem less from verified information and more from assumptions amplified by social media algorithms. Once a few accounts labeled the design with a controversial term, the narrative snowballed.
The added buzz around her smiley piercing only fueled engagement. For some fans, the piercing and tattoo together symbolized individuality and creative expression. For critics, it became part of a broader cultural debate about public figures and image.
Supporters quickly came to Liu’s defense, pointing out that athletes — especially young women — are often scrutinized more intensely for personal style choices than their male counterparts. Many emphasized that body art and piercings are personal decisions, not public statements requiring explanation.
Others noted the irony: just weeks earlier, Liu was celebrated globally for her Olympic achievements. Now, a piece of artwork was driving more online discourse than her skating.
At this point, there has been no official controversy beyond social media commentary. No governing body statements. No confirmed symbolism. Just speculation circulating at high speed.
In the end, the “reason” behind the uproar may be simpler than many expected — viral culture thrives on mystery, and ambiguity invites projection. A partial glimpse of a tattoo can become a headline if enough people attach meaning to it.
For now, Liu appears to be letting the noise pass, focused on her career and life beyond the rink. And as with many internet storms, the intensity may fade as quickly as it arrived.
