Fans React as Alysa Liu Defends Fellow Olympian, Slams Critics as 'Hypocritical'

Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu defended fellow medalist Eileen Gu amid controversy at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Liu, 20, expressed support for Gu, highlighting their Bay Area connection and criticizing those shaming Gu for representing China despite her immigrant background.

Liu emphasized the importance of sport over nationality, praising Gu's competitive spirit and love for the game. Gu, 22, a decorated freeskier, chose to represent China at the Games, despite being born in San Francisco, due to her mother's Chinese heritage.

Eileen Gu's Background and Decision

Both Liu and Gu were born in California to Chinese and American parents. Gu's decision to represent China, where her mother is from, was made prior to her participation in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.

The discourse surrounding Gu intensified when U.S. Vice President JD Vance criticized her choice to compete for China, questioning her loyalty to the United States. Gu responded, highlighting the unfair criticism she faced and attributing it to prejudice against China.

Gu's Response to Criticism

Gu acknowledged the scrutiny she faced, attributing it partly to her success as an athlete. She became the most decorated female freestyle skier in Olympic history at the 2026 Games, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport.