Story perspectives

Eileen Gu Faces Backlash for Competing with China

2/19/2026

Summary

Eileen Gu's Controversial Decision

Freestyle skier Eileen Gu, born in San Francisco, will represent China at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Former National Basketball Association (NBA) player Enes Kanter Freedom labeled her a "traitor" and criticized her decision amid ongoing human rights abuses in China.
Vice President JD Vance expressed disappointment.
He said he hopes American-born athletes choose to compete for the United States.
Gu has faced backlash, including alleged harassment, for her decision.

Summary

Alysa Liu's Olympic Quest

Alysa Liu, a U.S. figure skater, aims to end the United States' 24-year Olympic medal drought for American women.
After a brief retirement, she returned to competition and scored 76.59 points in her short program.
Her journey includes overcoming a spying incident involving her father, a Tiananmen Square protester.
She emphasizes personal growth and self-expression as she prepares to compete against Japanese rivals for gold in Milan.

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Eileen Gu's Controversial Decision

Freestyle skier Eileen Gu, born in San Francisco, will represent China at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Former National Basketball Association (NBA) player Enes Kanter Freedom labeled her a "traitor" and criticized her decision amid ongoing human rights abuses in China.
Vice President JD Vance expressed disappointment.
He said he hopes American-born athletes choose to compete for the United States.
Gu has faced backlash, including alleged harassment, for her decision.

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