Tensions between Olympic champion Eileen Gu, also known in China as Gu Ailing, and US political figures continue to rise after the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Competing for China at the Games, Gu recently made freestyle skiing history by becoming the sport’s first athlete to win six Olympic medals. However, the San Francisco born and raised skier remained at the center of controversy for representing China rather than the United States.
The latest spark in the debate is a bill introduced by US Representative Andy Ogles. While the legislation is designed to promote sportsmanship, critics say its real target is Gu. The proposal would impose a punitive tax of up to 100% on prize money and endorsement earnings for athletes who hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency but compete for what the bill describes as “adversary nations,” including China and Russia.
Speaking to local media, Ogles said the goal is to ensure the Internal Revenue Service can recover all of the athlete’s earnings. His comments have led to accusations that the bill amounts to political pressure aimed at a specific individual.
Similar sentiments have also emerged within the US administration. Vice President J.D. Vance openly criticized Gu’s decision, pointing out that he benefited from the American education system but chose to represent China in the Olympics. Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent questioned why he would choose China despite the opportunities he received in the United States, with some remarks interpreted as labeling his choice as a betrayal.
Amid growing political pressure from Congress and the executive branch, Gu finally broke his silence on social media to explain his position. He emphasized that his decision at age 15 was not driven by politics but by a personal belief.
According to Gu, representing China provided the opportunity to create the broadest and most positive impact. He explained that freestyle skiing was still relatively unknown in China and that he wanted to introduce the sport to hundreds of millions of people, especially young girls, who would see new possibilities through it.
Gu also spoke about the personal bonds he developed by attending training camps in China every summer since he was eight years old. Those experiences, he said, helped shape his sense of identity and ultimately influenced his decision. “Now many girls no longer doubt their place on the ski slopes,” she wrote, noting that for her, inspiring change meant more than the number of medals won.
The pressure he faces has gone beyond political debate and has even raised concerns about personal safety. Since joining the Chinese national team, Gu has reportedly faced threats both online and offline. During his studies at Stanford University, he reportedly had to seek police assistance 37 times in six months due to harassment and threats.
Despite the controversy, Gu has maintained a resolute stance, saying that while the situation may not get easier, it will only make it stronger.
Chinese outlet Sina Sports analyzed the situation as reflecting anxiety in some parts of American society. The publication argues that the unusually hostile response towards a young athlete reveals fears about China’s growing soft power, suggesting that Gu became a target simply because she chose to represent China.
Sources: Nate
