The Winter Olympics became a stage for a complex debate, ignited by freestyle skier Eileen Gu’s decision to compete for China despite being born and raised in the United States. This choice drew sharp criticism from Lily Tang Williams, a New Hampshire Congressional candidate with a deeply personal understanding of life under communist rule.
Williams’ perspective isn’t shaped by political rhetoric, but by lived experience. She survived the turmoil of Mao’s Cultural Revolution in China, a period of intense social and political upheaval, and carries a profound appreciation for the freedoms often taken for granted.
The controversy intensified when fellow American athlete Hunter Hess expressed “mixed emotions” about representing the United States, admitting he wasn’t a “biggest fan” of the current state of affairs. Hess clarified his participation was for personal support, not national pride.
Former President Trump responded swiftly, labeling Hess a “Loser” and questioning his place on the team. The situation sparked a wider conversation about patriotism and the responsibilities of representing a nation on the world stage.
Eileen Gu attempted to diffuse the tension, suggesting the debate was “overshadowing the Games” and expressing sympathy for athletes facing backlash for critical comments. However, Williams saw a stark contrast between the embrace Gu received from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the path taken by another Chinese-American athlete.
Williams highlighted the case of figure skater Alysa Liu, who, like Gu, has a Chinese background but proudly and unequivocally competes for the United States. She credited Liu’s upbringing for instilling a strong sense of American patriotism.
“There are two main groups of Chinese Americans,” Williams stated, articulating a clear distinction. “One group loves USA and embraces American ideals; another group, like Eileen Gu’s mother, is pro-CCP China.”
Williams powerfully argued for judging individuals based on their values, not their ethnicity. This sentiment resonated with many who believe athletes should demonstrate unwavering support for the country they represent.
Gu’s financial success is inextricably linked to her choice. As the highest-paid Winter Olympic athlete, she earns an estimated $23 million annually through endorsements with both Chinese and Western companies, including the Bank of China.
Gu has publicly stated her decision to compete for China is rooted in honoring her mother, who was born there. However, she has remained conspicuously silent on China’s widely documented human rights concerns, including the repression of Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities.
