Elieen Gu likely experienced every possible emotion during the 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Milano-Cortina. The American-born skier, who represents China internationally, will leave the village with two silver medals and a gold medal. She earned the most coveted medal on Sunday at the halfpipe.
MORE: Eileen Gu reshapes Olympic history with definitive performance at 2026 Milan-Cortina
After such a terrific performance as the only skier to enter the halfpipe, slopestyle and big air, Gu received terrible news. She explained to reporters that she learned about her grandma’s passing after securing the gold medal.
“The reason I was late is that I just found out that my grandma passed away,” an emotional Gu said. “She was a really big part of my life growing up and someone I looked up to immensely. She was a fighter and I think that a lot of people just cruise through life, but I think she was a steamship. This woman commanded life, and she grabbed it by the reins, and she made it into what she wanted it to be.”
“She inspired me so much,” Gu added. “The last time I saw her before I came to the Olympics, she was very sick, so I knew that this was a possibility. I didn’t probably say that I was going to win, but I did promise her that I was going to be brave. She’s been brave.”
"The reason I was late is that I just found out that my grandma passed away. She was a really big part of my life growing up and someone I looked up to immensely."
— CGTN Sports Scene (@CGTNSportsScene) February 22, 2026
-China's Gu Ailing after clinching her 2nd straight freeski halfpipe gold
at the #Olympics#MilanoCortina2026pic.twitter.com/6iK0MMT5tK
Gu was under heavy scrutiny during the games after she opted to represent China. She responded to multiple questions about her selection, geopolitics and more.
MORE: Former NBA star bashes 2026 Winter Olympics ‘traitor’ Eileen Gu
Eileen Gu responded to JD Vance’s criticism
U.S. Vice President JD Vance sent a clear message to Eileen Gu and other athletes born in America who don’t represent the country internationally. He questioned people for using the privileges the country offers and then offering their talents to a different nation.
Gu had a short but strong response to the politician.
“I’m flattered. Thanks, JD! That’s sweet,” she said.
Gu will leave Italy with a stronger legacy. She is only 22 and has a bright future ahead. Time will tell if she will change her mind about representing China at some point.
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