Eileen Gu responds to criticism over competing for China
The 22-year-old freestyle skier Eileen Gu has openly admitted feeling like a “punching bag” amid criticism for representing China in international sports. She explained that the negativity is less about her personal choice and more about people’s attitudes towards China as a whole.
Gu pointed out that many athletes compete for countries other than where they were born, but she faces backlash because China is seen as a monolithic entity that some people dislike intensely. She also noted that criticism increased because of her success; if her results had been poor, the controversy would likely have been less intense. Born in San Francisco to an American father and a Chinese mother, Gu’s decision to compete for China since 2019 has sparked debate both within the US and abroad.
At present, Gu views the criticism as part of her sporting journey and stresses everyone has the right to their opinions. Future performances may either soften critics’ attitudes or further amplify public debate.
