The ongoing 2026 Winter Olympics in Livigno, Italy, have been noticeably impacted by political tensions, largely highlighted by recent comments from athletes and former President Donald Trump. Following Trump’s derogatory remarks directed at American freestyle skier Hunter Hess, prominent figures in the Olympic arena have come forth to express their views on national representation amid a politically charged atmosphere.
Hunter Hess, a halfpipe competitor, had stated his struggle with representing the U.S. in the current divisive political climate, prompting Trump to label him a “real loser” on social media for his sentiments. The backlash from Trump’s comments set the stage for fellow Olympians, notably freestyle skier Eileen Gu and snowboarder Chloe Kim, to address the dialogue surrounding athlete identity and national pride.
Eileen Gu, who recently secured a silver medal in the freeski slopestyle event, articulated her disappointment over the focus on politically motivated headlines overshadowing the essence of the Olympics. “It really runs contrary to everything the Olympics should be,” she said, emphasizing that sport should unite rather than divide. Gu added that the essence of athletic competition lies in its ability to connect people transcending their differences.
Chloe Kim, competing for her third consecutive gold medal in the halfpipe, shared her pride in representing the U.S. while stressing the importance of having the liberty to voice personal opinions. She highlighted the need for compassion and understanding, particularly given her family’s immigrant background. “It’s important in moments like these for us to unite and kind of stand up for one another,” Kim noted, reflecting broader sentiments of her teammates who feel similarly about the state of affairs at home.
Another athlete, Maddie Mastro, articulated her mixed emotions about competing under the U.S. flag while acknowledging the challenges facing the country. She remarked that while she is proud to represent Team USA, the current issues at home cannot simply be ignored.
Bea Kim and Maddy Schaffrick echoed these feelings, emphasizing the strength found in diversity and the opportunities that the U.S. provides. Their collective narratives underscore the resilience and determination of athletes from varied backgrounds striving to make their mark on the world stage.
As the Games progress, the events have become a poignant reminder of the serious intersections between sports, national identity, and individual values, showcasing how athletes navigate personal and political complexities while striving for excellence in their sports. The hope remains that the spirit of unity and passion for the sport can prevail amidst a backdrop of political discourse.