Eileen Gu is a remarkable 22-year-old freestyle skier and a Stanford student. Last year, she earned more than $23 million, becoming one of the highest-paid female athletes in the world. In the 2026 Olympics in Milan, she won two silver medals, but her choice to represent China instead of the U.S. has sparked a storm of criticism.
Born in San Francisco to a Chinese mother and American father, Gu has always been a celebrity in her sport. The scrutiny intensified during her debut at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, where she faced backlash for her nationality choice. Back then, she tried to express a balanced view, acknowledging her roots from both countries. However, this time, things feel different.
Criticism of Gu has ramped up, particularly among right-wing commentators who connect her actions to a broader “America First” sentiment. Gu has matured significantly since her Olympics debut; she speaks out now against the vitriol she endures. “I’ve gone through things at 22 that I don’t think any person ever should have to deal with,” she shared recently, highlighting the online harassment and threats she faces.
Her situation is not unique. Many athletes with dual nationality have opted to compete for different nations, often for personal or financial reasons. Yet, Gu’s case has drawn more attention during a time of rising tensions between the U.S. and China. Her announcement in 2015 to compete for China was described as difficult, and critics argue that she has gained from American resources while choosing another country. This debate flared up again during the Winter Olympics, especially on conservative social media platforms.
Figures like former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom have called Gu a “traitor,” while some politicians have even linked her choices to treason. This conversation amplifies how polarized public opinion has become regarding athletes’ national loyalties.
Gu’s decision often draws comparisons with other Asian American athletes. For instance, both Alysa Liu and Chloe Kim, who represent the U.S., have come under scrutiny as examples of what some believe is a better stance for second-generation Americans. Social media users have highlighted this contrast, with comments like, “Chloe Kim isn’t a traitor,” emphasizing the perceived disconnect between Gu and her peers.
Yet, Gu has a solid base of support. Some fans argue that she has a right to pursue her heritage and seize opportunities, especially given her mixed background. One TikTok user summed it up well: “Would you not do the same?” Many also reflect on the complex situation of immigrants in the U.S., noting that disillusionment with American policies may affect feelings of loyalty.
Beyond social media, Gu has faced real-life dangers, including being physically attacked and receiving death threats. Her boldness to speak out stems from not only personal growth but also a desire to lessen the burden of public expectation. “It feels like I’m carrying the weight of two countries on my shoulders,” she admitted.
Eileen Gu is now at the top of her sport, with numerous World Cup titles and Olympic medals to her name. Her earnings come from lucrative endorsements, with companies like Red Bull and Porsche partnering with her. She is also recognized in China, where her dual identity is embraced, and she is often called the “snow princess.”
In China, her achievements are celebrated, regardless of the color of her medals. “Real champions aren’t just defined by gold medals,” one user noted on Weibo after she won her second silver. Gu’s focus extends beyond athletics; she hopes to inspire young girls in sports, sharing that her own struggles have made her stronger. “I want to protect others from the bullying I faced,” she said, reflecting her resilient spirit.
As she navigates through this challenging landscape, Gu’s journey showcases the complexities of identity, loyalty, and the pressures faced by public figures in a divided world.
