America’s Winter Olympic delegation has once again found itself navigating the uneasy crossroads of sports and politics.
The latest flashpoint came after President Donald Trump publicly criticized freestyle skier Hunter Hess, calling him a “real loser” following remarks in which the athlete said he felt conflicted about representing the United States amid political tensions at home. What may have once been a personal reflection quickly escalated into a national debate played out across social media and the Olympic stage.
Hess’s comments struck a chord within Team USA. Several athletes stepped forward to defend his right to speak openly, framing the backlash as contrary to the very freedoms the country claims to champion.
Ben Ogden, who recently captured silver in the men’s cross-country sprint and ended a 50-year Olympic medal drought for the United States in the discipline, described the episode as disheartening. He said he believes in a country where individuals can express their views without fear of retaliation, especially from the highest office in the land.
Zak Ketterson echoed that sentiment, calling the criticism “childish” and expressing surprise that free speech advocates would target an athlete for voicing personal doubts. For him and others, the issue transcended sport and cut to the heart of American civic values.
Lauren Jortberg acknowledged that many athletes are wrestling with an internal tension. Competing under the U.S. flag, she said, can feel complicated when personal beliefs clash with national politics. Yet she emphasized that love of country and belief in its founding ideals remain strong among competitors.
Curler Rich Ruohonen added another layer to the conversation, condemning immigration enforcement actions in his home state of Minnesota while affirming his pride in representing the United States. He pointed to constitutional protections of free speech as foundational to both the nation and the Olympic spirit.
Political leaders also weighed in. Utah Governor Spencer Cox praised the athletes and defended their right to speak freely, describing open expression as a defining feature of American democracy. He urged unity, framing the Olympic stage as an opportunity to bring people together despite divisions beyond the arena.
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee sought to calm tensions. CEO Sarah Hirshland emphasized that Hess’s remarks should be viewed in full context, noting that he had also expressed love for his country. She reiterated confidence that Team USA athletes are proud to represent the United States while remaining focused on unity and competition.
As the Games continue, the episode serves as a reminder that even in the world’s most celebrated sporting arena, the cultural debates unfolding at home can follow athletes onto the snow and ice.