Eileen Gu recently spoke out on the controversy surrounding Hunter Hess at the recent Winter Olympics. The American-born Chinese skier responded to US President Donald Trump calling Hess a ‘loser’ for his comments on the country’s politics.
Gu initially represented the USA from 2017 to 2019. However, following approval from the International Ski Federation, the freestyle skier shifted her allegiance to China, where she currently represents at the Winter Olympics.
Eileen Gu Opens Up On Hunter Hess Controversy
In a recent interview after the women’s slopestyle event, Gu was asked about her comments on Trump’s response to Hess’ statement. The 23-year-old skier responded by stating, “As someone who’s been caught in the crossfire before, I feel sorry for the athletes.”
Gu was backed by snowboarder Chloe Kim, who stated, “In moments like these, it is really important for us to unite and kind of stand up for one another for all that’s going on.”
For the uninitiated, Hess made his Olympic debut in the current edition after failing to qualify for the 2022 edition due to an MCL tear sustained ahead of the qualifiers. Recently, the 27-year-old skier had commented on representing the USA amid the country’s current political climate.
“It brings up mixed emotions to represent the U.S. right now, I think. It’s a little hard. There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of and I think a lot of people aren’t. Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the US,” Hess said.
This statement evoked mixed reactions. While some supported Hess, others criticized his views.
President Trump also shared his take on Hess’s remarks.
In his post on Truth Social, the incumbent President wrote, “U.S. Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesn’t represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If that’s the case, he shouldn’t have tried out for the Team, and it’s too bad he’s on it. Very hard to root for someone like this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Hess responded by maintaining that no one can judge his loyalty towards the USA. He posted on Instagram,
“I love my country. There is so much that is great about America, but there are always things that could be better. One of the many things that makes this country so amazing is that we have the right and the freedom to point that out. The best part of the Olympics is that it brings people together… I cannot wait to represent Team USA next week when I compete. Thanks to everyone for their support.”
