Vice President JD Vance criticized American athletes for speaking out on politics during the 2026 Winter Olympics and questioned why Eileen Gu, who was born and raised in the U.S., competes for China instead of Team USA.
Gu, 22, has won five Olympic medals and is now the most decorated female freeskier in Olympic history. After qualifying for the halfpipe final and winning gold in Italy, she found herself at the center of political debate.
Vance said athletes who benefit from America should represent the U.S., adding he roots for those who “identify themselves as Americans.” Asked about Gu specifically, he said her status was up to the Olympic committee.
Born in San Francisco to a Chinese mother and American father, Gu switched to represent China in 2019. She has said her goal is to inspire young women, not make a political statement.
Responding to Vance, Gu kept it brief: “I’m flattered. Thanks, JD! That’s sweet.” She added that criticism often comes because of politics — and because she wins — but said the Olympics should be about unity, not division.