At halfpipe, neither US-born Olympic medal favorite competes for U.S. Eileen Gu takes the heat
Associated Press News • • sports
Key Points:
- Zoe Atkin (competing for Britain) and Eileen Gu (competing for China) are top contenders in women's halfpipe skiing at the Winter Olympics, both born in the U.S. but representing different countries.
- Eileen Gu faces significant criticism and political scrutiny for competing for China, partly due to anti-China sentiments, while Zoe Atkin’s choice to compete for Britain receives little controversy.
- Gu emphasizes her decision to compete for China was motivated by promoting the sport there and increasing visibility for young girls, not financial reasons, despite reports of Chinese government funding.
- The Olympic charter requires athletes to be nationals of the country they represent, but many action sports athletes, who often compete globally with little regard for national affiliations,
