Athletes Speak Out on Political Tensions and the Olympics
Chloe Kim and Eileen Gu, two prominent Olympic athletes who have faced their share of criticism over the years, have both expressed their views on Donald Trump’s recent comments about their friend, American freeskier Hunter Hess. Hess had previously stated that he did not support the US president’s policies on immigration, which led to a backlash from Trump.
“I think in moments like these, it is really important for us to unite and kind of stand up for one another for all that’s going on,” said Kim, a two-time Olympic gold medallist whose parents are South Korean immigrants. Throughout her career, she has experienced racism due to her Asian heritage.
Gu, an American-born freeskier who competes for China, shared her thoughts after winning a silver medal in slopestyle. She mentioned that she had been in touch with Hess, who told her that she was one of the few people who could understand what he was going through.
“As someone who’s been caught in the crossfire before, I feel sorry for the athletes,” said Gu, who was born in San Francisco. Her decision to compete for China made her a controversial figure.
Hess drew Trump’s attention when he was asked about the immigration crackdown that has resulted in the deaths of two protestors in Minnesota and disrupted the lives of thousands of immigrants and US citizens. Hess responded: “Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the US.”
The following day, Trump criticized Hess on his Truth Social account, calling him “a real Loser” and stating that it would be hard for him to support Hess at the Games.
Hess’ friends — snowboarders and freeskiers competing this week in Livigno — were asked for their reaction.
“My parents being immigrants from Korea, this one definitely hits pretty close to home,” said Kim, who is set to defend her title on Wednesday.
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“I’m really proud to represent the United States,” she said. “The US has given my family and I so much opportunity, but I also think that we are allowed to voice our opinions of what’s going that we need to lead with love and compassion.”
Other American snowboarders also spoke out in favor of diversity and the right to express different opinions.
“I think there are a lot of different opinions in the US right now. Obviously we’re very divided,” said snowboarder Bea Kim. “I personally am very proud to represent the United States. That being said, I think diversity is what makes us a very strong country and what makes that so special.”
Teammate Maddie Mastro added: “I’m also saddened with what’s happening at home.”
“It’s really tough and I feel like we can’t turn a blind eye to that. But at the same time, I represent a country that has the same values as mine of kindness and compassion. And we come together in times of injustice,” Mastro said.
Gu described the situation as “an unwinnable press war” for Hess and expressed concern that the controversy could distract from the athletes and overshadow the beauty of the biggest event in winter sports.
“I’m sorry that the headline that is eclipsing the Olympics has to be something so … unrelated to the spirit of the Games,” she said. “It really runs contrary to everything that the Olympics should be.”
