American-Born Olympian Eileen Gu Defends US Athletes' 'Mixed Emotions'

Gu, who chose to compete for China despite being raised in the US, says she's 'caught in the crossfire' over national identity issues.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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American-born Olympic skier Eileen Gu, who was born and raised in the United States but chose to compete for China, is now defending U.S. athletes who say they struggle emotionally representing Team USA. Gu spoke out after skier Hunter Hess said he had 'mixed emotions' competing under the American flag, saying she sympathizes with athletes who feel pressure tied to national identity.

Why it matters

Gu's comments have drawn renewed scrutiny because she herself was born and raised in San Francisco, trained within the U.S. ski development system, and benefited from American sports infrastructure before later deciding to represent China on the world stage. Critics argue the situation highlights a double standard, while supporters say it reflects the complicated realities of modern global sports.

The details

At the Winter Games, Gu was also seen showcasing a competition suit inspired by Chinese ceramics, visually reinforcing her alignment with the country she now represents internationally. The remarks are drawing renewed scrutiny because Gu herself was born and raised in San Francisco, trained within the U.S. ski development system, and benefited from American sports infrastructure before later deciding to represent China on the world stage.

  • Gu spoke out after skier Hunter Hess said he had 'mixed emotions' competing under the American flag.
  • At the Winter Games, Gu was also seen showcasing a competition suit inspired by Chinese ceramics.

The players

Eileen Gu

An American-born Olympic skier who chose to compete for China despite being raised in the United States.

Hunter Hess

An American skier who said he had 'mixed emotions' competing under the American flag.

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What they’re saying

“As someone who has got caught in the crossfire before, I feel sorry for the athletes. I hope that they can ski to their very best.”

— Eileen Gu (wabcradio.com)

The takeaway

Gu's comments highlight the complex issues of national identity and loyalty that some athletes face in the modern global sports landscape, where athletes with dual ties must navigate identity, politics, and public backlash alongside elite competition.