Eileen Gu, an American-born skier representing China, has faced significant backlash during the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. Her choice has triggered reactions from many, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who expressed his hope that athletes born in the U.S. would prefer to compete for their home country.
Gu responded to Vance’s comments with grace, saying, “Thanks, JD! That’s sweet.” However, the scrutiny has taken a toll on her. After a recent competition, she candidly acknowledged feeling like a “punching bag” in the midst of political tensions. “People only have a problem with me doing it because they kind of lump China into this monolithic entity,” she said.
Competing at a high level brings pressure, and Gu noted that if her performances weren’t so successful, the criticism might not be as intense. “People are entitled to their opinions,” she added.
In a revealing interview with The Athletic, Gu shared troubling experiences related to her decision to represent China. She mentioned receiving death threats, having been physically assaulted, and even having her dorm robbed. “I’ve gone through things as a 22-year-old that no one should have to endure,” she stated.
This Olympics has thus been marked by both triumph and turmoil for Gu. While she has already won silver medals in two events, she is set to compete in the women’s freestyle skiing halfpipe final.
The stakes have been high for athletes in this Olympics, not just in competition but also in navigating international politics and personal identity. Recently, a Wall Street Journal report indicated that Gu and fellow athlete Zhu Yi received significant support, totaling nearly $14 million over the last three years, from the Beijing Municipal Sports Bureau. This financial backing illustrates the intensity surrounding their performances and the pressure to deliver results.
Vance reaffirmed his stance during an interview, asserting that he would always support athletes who identify as Americans. “I’m going to root for American athletes,” he said, emphasizing that identifying with one’s country is part of the Olympic spirit.
As Gu continues her journey in the Olympics, her story reflects broader questions about national identity, representation, and the pressures athletes face today. Her experiences resonate with many, highlighting the challenges of competing on a global stage where politics often overlap with sports.
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Olympics,Sports,athletes,china,JD Vance,Winter Olympics 2026
