US Snowboard Star Chloe Kim Calls for Unity After Trump Bashes Teammate

Kim and Gu speak out in support of American freeskier Hunter Hess after Trump's social media attack.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Chloe Kim, the two-time Olympic gold medalist snowboarder, and Eileen Gu, the American-born freeskier competing for China, have both spoken out in support of their teammate Hunter Hess after he was criticized by former President Donald Trump on social media for comments Hess made about the U.S. government's immigration crackdown. Kim and Gu, who have faced their own share of hate and racism, called for unity and compassion in the face of divisiveness.

Why it matters

The comments from Kim and Gu highlight the ongoing political tensions and divisions in the U.S. that have spilled over into the world of sports. As high-profile athletes, their words carry weight and their call for unity during the Olympics is a meaningful statement against the hateful rhetoric from Trump.

The details

Hess drew Trump's ire when he told reporters that "just because I'm wearing the flag doesn't mean I represent everything that's going on in the U.S." in reference to the U.S. government's heightened crackdown on immigrants. Trump then lashed out at Hess on social media, calling him a "real Loser" and saying he would be hard-pressed to root for him at the Games. Kim and Gu, who have both faced racism and hate over their careers, spoke out in support of Hess, with Kim saying "we are allowed to voice our opinions of what's going on" and Gu calling the controversy a distraction from the spirit of the Olympics.

  • On February 9, 2026, Trump criticized American freeskier Hunter Hess on social media.
  • On February 13, 2026, the 2026 Winter Olympics are set to begin in Livigno, Italy.

The players

Chloe Kim

A two-time Olympic gold medalist snowboarder whose parents are South Korean immigrants and who has faced racism throughout her career for her Asian heritage.

Eileen Gu

An American-born freeskier who competes for China and has been a lightning rod of controversy for her decision to represent China instead of the United States.

Hunter Hess

An American freeskier who drew criticism from former President Donald Trump for comments he made about the U.S. government's immigration crackdown.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who criticized Hunter Hess on social media, calling him a "real Loser" and saying he would be hard-pressed to root for him at the Games.

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What they’re saying

“I think 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.”

— Chloe Kim (The Associated Press)

“As someone who's been caught in the crossfire before, I feel sorry for the athletes.”

— Eileen Gu (The Associated Press)

“I'm really proud to represent the United States. The U.S. has given my family and I so much opportunity, but I also think that we are allowed to voice our opinions of what's going that we need to lead with love and compassion.”

— Chloe Kim (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Livigno, Italy are set to begin on February 13, 2026, where Chloe Kim will be defending her Olympic gold medal in snowboarding and Eileen Gu will be competing for China.

The takeaway

This controversy highlights the ongoing political divisions in the United States and the challenges athletes face in balancing their national pride with their personal views. Kim and Gu's calls for unity and compassion during this time set an important example for how to navigate these complex issues with empathy and understanding.