Eileen Gu: Representing China on the World Stage

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Eileen Gu is set to compete for China once again at the upcoming Winter Olympics, sparking continued discussion about her decision to represent the nation despite being born and raised in the United States. Gu maintains that the U.S. “already has the representation,” and she’s focused on inspiring a new generation of athletes in China.

Gu first faced scrutiny in 2022 for her choice to compete for China at the Beijing Olympics, where she achieved remarkable success, winning gold in women’s freeski big air and halfpipe, and silver in slopestyle. This decision raised eyebrows, particularly given the Chinese government’s stance against dual citizenship.

Eileen Gu of China competes during the freeski slopestyle at the Laax Open in Switzerland, January 17, 2026. (Andreas Becker/Keystone via AP)

Inspiring a New Generation

In a recent interview with Time Magazine, Gu explained that her decision was driven by a desire to foster greater participation in freestyle skiing within China, a sport that historically hasn’t been widely popular there. She stated, “I like building my own pond.” Gu also dismissed suggestions that financial incentives played a role, noting, “I’m glad that there’s enough money in the sport now for people to think that’s a consideration.”

Gu’s mother is Chinese, and while she grew up in San Francisco, she estimates she’s spent at least a quarter of her life in China. This connection to her heritage clearly influences her choices.

Citizenship Questions Remain

The issue of Gu’s citizenship has been a recurring point of contention. China does not permit dual citizenship, leading to questions about whether Gu relinquished her U.S. citizenship to compete for China. During the 2022 Olympics, she largely avoided directly addressing these questions, stating, “I don’t really see how that’s relevant.” Time Magazine reported that Gu “declined to engage on the citizenship question,” and there has been no definitive confirmation that she has given up her U.S. citizenship. NBC Olympics provides further details on this complex issue.

Dominating the Slopes

As she heads to Italy, the 22-year-old Gu is a strong favorite to defend her Olympic titles. She recently achieved her record-extending 20th World Cup victory, and her fourth in slopestyle, at the Laax Open in Switzerland. Her consistent performance solidifies her position as a leading figure in the world of freestyle skiing. ESPN provides coverage of her recent wins.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.