At just 22 years old, Eileen Gu stands out as one of the top freestyle skiers globally, boasting an impressive four Olympic medals. Currently on a leave of absence from Stanford University, where she studies international relations, Gu is gearing up for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympic Games.
Rather than waiting to complete her degree, Gu has fully immersed herself in her career, generating a staggering $23.1 million in earnings last year alone, according to Forbes. This remarkable achievement places her as the fourth-highest-paid female athlete, surpassing renowned figures like Naomi Osaka and Caitlin Clark. Gu emphasizes to young people the importance of seizing opportunities early, stating, “You don’t have to wait until you’re older. You can do it all now.”
In a world where many in Generation Z face uncertainty due to economic and technological shifts, Gu’s message is refreshing: age should not be seen as a barrier. She believes in starting ventures sooner rather than later. Notably, Gu’s significant income has not stemmed from race winnings but rather from her prowess in self-branding and modeling as she collaborates with notable brands like Red Bull, Porsche, and TCL.
From a young age, Gu’s ambition was evident. Growing up in San Francisco as the daughter of a first-generation Chinese immigrant, she was skiing by the age of three. By her teenage years, her earnings from endorsements allowed her to pay her private school tuition, a milestone she regards with pride.
Despite her overwhelming success, Gu has confronted challenges, particularly concerning her mental health. The intense scrutiny and pressure following her achievements, including wins at the Beijing Olympics, prompted her to reevaluate her definition of success. Initially, she linked achievement to recognition. However, she later recognized the importance of collective success and using her platform to positively impact others rather than solely focusing on personal accolades.
Gu’s calendar is filled with a whirlwind of activities ranging from academic responsibilities to high-profile events. In a single fortnight in 2023, she balanced attending a Stanford sorority formal and walking for Victoria’s Secret in Barcelona, then headlining a Louis Vuitton show in Italy before returning home for a friend’s surprise party. This relentless pace demands not only physical stamina but also a mental resilience, often utilizing flights to catch up on academics.
Her impressive presence on social media, with over 2 million Instagram followers and considerable engagement on TikTok, amplifies her influence and connection with younger audiences. However, Gu’s unique position also means she forgoes certain benefits; as a competitor for Team China, she will not receive the $200,000 bonus designated for U.S. athletes.
As Gu prepares to compete in multiple events, including women’s slopestyle, big air, and halfpipe in Milan, she continues to be a prominent figure both in sports and as a role model, showcasing that personal drive, academic pursuits, and a desire to uplift others can coexist in the fast-paced world of athletics.