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Olympic medalist responds to JD Vance’s criticism, ‘I’m flattered’

Eileen Gu shuts down 'ridiculous perspective' about Olympic silver medals
  • American-born Olympian Eileen Gu has responded to Vice President JD Vance's criticism regarding her decision to compete for China in the Winter Olympics.
  • Vance suggested Gu, who was born and raised in San Francisco, should represent the United States, citing the benefits she received from the American education system and liberties.
  • Gu dismissed Vance's comments as 'sweet' and stated she feels like a 'punching bag' for American politics, attributing the criticism to a general dislike of China.
  • The freestyle skier, who has won multiple Olympic medals for China, explained her choice is to help popularise the sport in China, as the US already has strong representation.
  • Gu also revealed she was 'physically attacked' on Stanford University's campus over the controversy, while the International Olympic Committee rules permit dual nationals to represent either country.
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