Eileen Gu Fires Back at JD Vance Over Olympic Representation Row
Olympic freeski star Eileen Gu has issued a sharp retort after US Vice-President JD Vance appeared to criticise her decision to represent China on the international stage rather than the United States. The 22-year-old athlete, who is the most decorated freeskier in Olympic history with five medals, responded with a mix of sarcasm and defiance during the ongoing Milano Cortina Games.
Vance's Comments Spark Controversy
In an interview with Fox News, Vance suggested that American-born athletes should compete for the US, stating he would root for those who identify as Americans. When specifically asked about Gu, he claimed to have "no idea what her status should be," leaving it to the Olympic committee. Gu, born in San Francisco to an American father and Chinese mother, switched to represent China in 2019, a move that has made her a focal point in political discussions.
Gu's Defiant Response
After a qualifying run, Gu told USA Today, "I’m flattered. Thanks, JD! That’s sweet." She expressed no offense but acknowledged being used as a "punching bag" in US political debates. Gu argued that criticism stems from anti-China sentiments and her success, noting that other athletes compete for different countries without similar backlash. "If I wasn’t doing well, I think they probably wouldn’t care as much," she added.
Broader Context and Olympic Spirit
Gu has previously defended fellow skier Hunter Hess after criticism from Donald Trump, highlighting the pressures athletes face. She told Time magazine that the US already has ample representation and she prefers "building my own pond." Despite the controversy, Gu emphasises her mission to inspire young women, a goal she has held since childhood. The Olympic charter allows athletes with dual nationality to choose which country to represent, though Gu has not publicly disclosed her citizenship status, and China does not permit dual citizenship.
More than 15 American-born athletes have won medals for other countries at these Games, while at least 13 foreign-born athletes have medaled for Team USA. Gu, a favourite in the halfpipe event, won gold in Beijing 2022 and aims to add to her medal tally. She urged critics to adopt the Olympic spirit, focusing on unity rather than division, stating, "If they want to focus on the wrong things, they just have a sad little life."
