sports

February 16, 2026

Sino-American Rivalry at the Olympics: An Online Feud Over Two Chinese Women

Nearly 2,000 athletes are competing or have competed in various disciplines at the Winter Olympics in Italy, but a battle is also unfolding online.

Sino-American Rivalry at the Olympics: An Online Feud Over Two Chinese Women

TL;DR

  • A significant online debate has emerged regarding two young athletes of Chinese-American heritage competing at the Winter Olympics: freestyle skier Eileen Gu and figure skater Alysa Liu.
  • Gu, born in the US and competing for China, is lauded in China but criticized by some in the US, with accusations of being a traitor.
  • Liu, who competes for the US and whose father fled China after the Tiananmen Square protests, is seen positively by many in the US, but faces less attention in China.
  • The controversy is fueled by the broader US-China rivalry, with critics questioning the athletes' loyalties and national identities.
  • Gu's decision to compete for China has led to significant backlash, particularly after she commented on the polarising situation in the US, drawing comparisons to her perceived silence on human rights issues in China.
  • Liu's family history and the alleged surveillance of her family by the Chinese government contribute to her narrative, contrasting with Gu's image.
  • The situation reflects a 'New Cold War' climate, where national loyalty is emphasized, and dual identities are less tolerated.
  • The public perception of both athletes is shaped by narratives that position them as either a 'good' or 'bad' immigrant, influenced by their choices and backgrounds.

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