Winter Olympics 2026: Gus Kenworthy took death threats over ICE post 'with grain of salt'
BBC World
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Gus Kenworthy, the British freestyle skier competing for Team GB at the 2026 Winter Olympics, has shared his experience of receiving death threats after posting a graphic Instagram message about the United States' Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. The athlete, who grew up in the US but later switched allegiance to Great Britain, admitted that while the threats were unsettling, he chose to take them "with a grain of salt," emphasizing that such extreme reactions often reveal more about the perpetrators than the victim. Kenworthy's post, which included an expletive before the word "ICE," came after two individuals in Minnesota were killed by ICE agents in January, sparking widespread protests.
Kenworthy, who won silver at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and is a five-time World Championship medalist, also opened up about his career journey. After retiring following the 2022 Beijing Games due to burnout and health issues, including severe head injuries, he made an unexpected comeback last year. Despite facing financial challenges—having to self-fund his return to competition—he qualified for the halfpipe final in Italy. Kenworthy explained that the decision to return was driven by a desire not to live with regret, even though it meant navigating the difficulties of training and competing without formal funding.
The story highlights the intersection of sports, personal resilience, and broader societal issues. Kenworthy's experience underscores the risks athletes face when speaking out on controversial topics, as well as the pressures of balancing public opinion with personal goals. His journey also serves as a testament to overcoming adversity, both on and off the slopes, showcasing the dedication required to pursue elite-level sports even in the absence of financial support. For readers interested in world news and athlete experiences, Kenworthy's story offers insight into the challenges faced by athletes in high-stakes environments and the importance of speaking one's truth despite external pressures.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/20/2026