LIVIGNO, Italy (AP) — As the Winter Olympics kicked off in Milan, Vice President JD Vance praised the event as a rare unifier for the nation. However, that sense of unity quickly faded.
In the opening days of the Milan Cortina Games, American athletes faced a barrage of questions about President Donald Trump’s hardline immigration policies. Many athletes expressed unease about representing a country whose policies are viewed as increasingly controversial.
Freestyle skier Hunter Hess voiced his “mixed emotions” about wearing the U.S. flag. “Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I support everything happening in the U.S.,” he said.
His comments sparked a swift backlash from Trump, who labeled Hess a “real loser” on social media, intensifying a debate that typically remains sidelined during the Olympics. Other conservative figures echoed Trump’s sentiments, even suggesting that Hess should be removed from the team.
Despite the criticism, many athletes rallied to support Hess. Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim emphasized the importance of unity in difficult times. Similarly, Eileen Gu, a standout skier competing for China, reached out to Hess, understanding the pressure of conflicting identities in sports.
The Olympics have always been intertwined with politics. The iconic protest by Tommie Smith and John Carlos in 1968 remains a powerful symbol of athlete activism. Social media has amplified this, giving athletes a platform to voice their opinions on pressing issues.
This year’s games occur amid renewed tensions surrounding immigration, following high-profile incidents in the U.S. that have reignited public discussions. American freestyle skier Chris Lillis expressed sadness over the climate in the country, advocating for kindness and respect for everyone.
Mikaela Shiffrin shared similar sentiments, quoting Nelson Mandela about the global struggles faced today. She hopes to embody values of inclusivity and diversity through her performance.
While some athletes engage in political discussions when prompted, others prefer to stay focused on competition. Speedskater Casey Dawson noted, “We’re here to skate. Politics don’t apply to us at the Games.”
The spotlight on American athletes is only expected to grow, especially with the U.S. hosting the World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. With ongoing political tensions, many hope sports can bridge divides and foster understanding. Ashleigh Huffman, who served in sports diplomacy under both the Biden and Trump administrations, remarked, “Sports can lower the temperature of the room.”
Events like the Olympics can ignite important conversations, showcasing the complexities athletes face as they balance personal beliefs, national pride, and the pursuit of excellence on the world stage.
For more insights on how the Olympics intersect with global issues, you can read this report.
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