The playful social media interaction between Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza and Alysa Liu has added a fresh layer of levity to their respective offseasons. While the back-and-forth has garnered much attention, it seems the Olympic gold medalist wants to have the last laugh.
Alysa Liu Responds to Fernando Mendoza’s Playful Callout
Liu took to her Instagram handle and responded to the Heisman Winner’s post, where he had tagged her and asked, “All about The Foundation. No problem taking all those crowns, Alysa Liu.”
Liu wrote, “That’s cold @fernandomendoza You’re so going down!!”
It all started when Mendoza, a vocal Fortnite fan who has collaborated with the game, posted an Instagram story that quickly went viral. In the video, he is seen holding a golden, in-game Fortnite Victory Crown.
With a wink to the camera, Mendoza staged a dramatic photo op where he attempted to bite the virtual crown. He tagged Liu in the post with the caption: “@alysaxliu am I doing it right?” In reply, Liu wrote, “Nah coming for the ice king? I eat these crowns for breakfast @fernandomendoza.”
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The post was a lighthearted, direct reference to one of the most iconic images from the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. After securing her historic gold medal, Liu was photographed biting the medal in a classic celebration of her victory.
By mimicking her pose with a digital Fortnite trophy, Mendoza successfully bridged the gap between his high-stakes football preparations and Liu’s recent achievement on the global stage.
The interaction underscores the friendly, competitive dynamic between the two stars, who have become the faces of their respective sports this year. While Mendoza gears up for what is expected to be his selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, fans have thoroughly enjoyed watching these two world-class athletes trade barbs and lighthearted gestures.
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Currently, all signs point toward Mendoza heading to the Las Vegas Raiders. Holding the first overall pick, the Raiders have spent the offseason clearing the runway for a franchise passer.
Fernando ended the 2025 season as the second-best quarterback in the nation, per PFSN’s CFB QB Impact. By trading Geno Smith to the Jets and signing All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum to a record-breaking contract, GM John Spytek has signaled that the Mendoza era is imminent.
