In a public clash emblematic of the intersection between athletics and politics, former President Donald Trump denounced Hunter Hess, an American freestyle skier competing in the Winter Olympics, calling him a "real loser." Hess had recently expressed "mixed emotions" about representing the United States amid the current political climate, remarks that ignited a fierce debate regarding patriotism and athlete expression during the Games held in Italy.
Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social on Sunday to issue his sharp critique, stating, "U.S. Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesn't represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If that's the case, he shouldn't have tried out for the Team, and it's too bad he's on it. Very hard to root for someone like this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"
These comments followed reports on Hess's nuanced stance about his role as a representative of the United States. Hess, specializing in the halfpipe and hailing from Bend, Oregon, spoke candidly with reporters last week. He clarified that wearing the US flag at the Olympics does not imply endorsement of every policy or current event in the country. "Just because I'm wearing the flag doesn't mean I represent everything that's going on in the US," Hess explained, expressing that he faced "mixed emotions" in light of political decisions and social issues he and many others find troubling.
Hess elaborated, "It's a little hard; there's obviously a lot going on that I'm not the biggest fan of and I think a lot of people aren't." He emphasized that his sense of representation was more personal and layered, focused on "my friends and family back home, the people that represented it before me, all the things that I believe that are good about the US."
This candidness by Hess occurred amidst broader conversations among US freestyle skiers confronting the politicization of sports. Teammate Chris Lillis voiced similar concerns, highlighting ongoing tensions related to federal immigration enforcement following two fatal shootings in Minnesota. Lillis acknowledged the hesitance often felt by athletes to discuss political views but expressed heartbreak over current events and urged national focus on respecting everyone's rights.
In response to the situation, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to the well-being of their athletes. "Our focus is on Hunter's protection and on ensuring he has the support and resources in place to compete on the world's largest stage," the spokesperson told ABC News. The Committee also addressed the increased barrage of abusive messages athletes have faced during the Games. Figure skater Amber Glenn recently described receiving a "scary amount" of hatred and threats after speaking in favor of LGBTQ+ rights in the context of the current political administration.
The controversy has spurred conservative voices to defend Trump and criticize athletes who question national representation. Katie Miller, known for her association with Trump and as the wife of senior adviser Stephen Miller, stated via X that those who cannot unequivocally express love for America while competing should not participate in the Olympics. White House chief of protocol Monica Crowley reinforced this stance by reposting Trump's comments and adding, "Represent America with pride or GTFO."
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) reacted strongly against Trump's attack, defending Hess as a "proud American." Sanders underscored democratic principles by declaring, "Mr. President, this is not a monarchy. This is the United States and no one is required to bow down to you." His response framed the disagreement as part of a broader debate about freedom of expression within American society.
This incident fits a consistent pattern of conflicts involving Trump and athletes who have spoken out on social and political matters. Past examples have included Trump's calls for NFL team owners to dismiss players who kneeled during the national anthem as a form of protest, alongside disputes over transgender athletes' participation in sports. These disputes have involved figures such as gymnast Simone Biles and policies affecting eligibility in women’s sports heading into upcoming Olympic events.
The current discourse surrounding Hess and his teammates highlights the increasing complexity of athletes navigating personal beliefs, national representation, and public scrutiny during international competitions. The tension reflects broader societal divisions and questions about the role of sports as a platform for political expression and national unity.