Eileen Gu is a fascinating figure, balancing life as a freestyle skier and a rising star in the modeling world. Born in California to an American father and a Chinese mother, she grew up with connections to both cultures. Gu attended a private school in San Francisco and is currently on a break from Stanford, where she focuses on international relations.
In 2019, at just 15, Gu made headlines when she decided to compete for China instead of the U.S. Her goal? To inspire young people in Beijing, her mother’s hometown, particularly in the lead-up to the 2022 Olympics. This choice stirred quite a debate, especially given the tense political climate between the U.S. and China.
Financially, Gu’s career has taken off. In 2025, Forbes listed her as the fourth-highest-paid female athlete, raking in about $23.1 million that year. Shockingly, only a small portion—around $100,000—came from her competitive ski earnings. Most of her wealth stems from endorsements with major brands like Red Bull and Porsche, and she has graced runways for Louis Vuitton and Victoria’s Secret. In a unique agreement, the Beijing Municipal Sports Bureau is reported to have paid her and another athlete nearly $14 million combined over three years, highlighting the financial stakes in the world of sports.
Despite her success, Gu’s decision to compete for China has drawn criticism. Many questioned her choice, considering China’s contentious human rights record. For example, some athletes have spoken out against the actions of U.S. agencies, like Immigration and Customs Enforcement, leading to a complex dialogue about national identity and representation. American skier Hunter Hess made headlines for expressing that wearing the U.S. flag doesn’t encompass the whole country’s actions.
Interestingly, Gu’s response to social issues has drawn scrutiny. She has voiced support for athletes speaking out about injustices yet has remained silent on China’s issues. Critics see this as hypocritical. Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom labeled her a “traitor,” emphasizing that enjoying U.S. freedoms while promoting the Chinese government is contradictory.
Eileen Gu walks a tightrope between her sports career and the expectations that come with her mixed heritage. As she competes in the upcoming 2026 Games, her journey continues to spark conversations about identity, culture, and the influence of sports in today’s world.
For further insight into Gu’s journey and perspectives on the sports landscape, you may explore articles from reliable sources like The Wall Street Journal or Time Magazine.
