Wetzel: Eileen Gu's all-American choice to ski for China - ESPN

ESPN

by Dan Wetzel

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Eileen Gu, the 22-year-old freeski star who competes for China despite being raised in the U.S., has sparked intense debate over her nationality choice. A Stanford University student and five-time Olympic medalist, Gu has faced both admiration and criticism for representing China, with some labeling her a "traitor" while others celebrate her as a trailblazer. Her decision to switch teams at age 15 was legal but controversial, drawing comparisons to other athletes who have switched nationalities for competitive or personal reasons. While Gu has cited her desire to inspire young Chinese girls as her primary motivation, critics argue that her move is driven by commercial interests, with reports of lucrative deals from Chinese agencies and brands. Gu's background makes her a unique figure in sports: she was born in the U.S., grew up there, and competed for Team USA until 2019. She has since become a cultural icon in China, where her mother originates, and a sensation in the West. Her dual fluency in English and Mandarin, combined with her academic achievements and modeling career, have made her a sought-after brand ambassador. Forbes estimates she earned $23.1 million in 2025 alone, ranking her fourth among the world's highest-paid female athletes. The controversy surrounding Gu highlights broader debates about nationality, identity, and athlete recruitment in international sports. While some view her as a role model for

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/20/2026