The choice of Eileen Gu to represent China, rather than the United States, has sparked significant debate regarding her citizenship and the influence of her decision. Born in San Francisco, Gu publicly announced her allegiance shift in 2019, aiming to inspire youth in her mother’s homeland during the 2022 Beijing Olympics. There, she garnered two gold medals and a silver in freestyle skiing, marking a pivotal moment in her athletic career.
Financial Gains and Recognition
Since her Olympic success, Gu has generated considerable wealth, primarily through endorsements rather than her skiing accolades. In 2025, she was recognized as the fourth-highest earning female athlete, raking in over $23 million. A significant portion, approximately $23 million, stemmed from endorsements, with a mere $20,000 linked to her competition earnings.
Payments for Olympic Qualifying
Recent reports reveal that Gu, alongside fellow American-born figure skater Zhu Yi, received substantial financial backing from the Beijing Municipal Sports Bureau. According to the Wall Street Journal, the two athletes were collectively awarded $6.6 million in 2025 for their efforts in qualifying for the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics. Over the past three years, their combined payments reportedly approached $14 million.
- Eileen Gu: Two golds and one silver at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
- Earnings in 2025: Over $23 million, largely from endorsements.
- Combined payments from the Beijing Municipal Sports Bureau: Nearly $14 million.
- Upcoming events for Gu: Women’s halfpipe and big air.
Despite her accomplishments, Gu’s citizenship status remains complicated. China does not recognize dual citizenship, implying she likely relinquished her U.S. passport to compete for China. After recently securing a silver medal in slopestyle in Italy, Gu expressed the emotional burden of representing two nations, stating, “Sometimes it feels like I’m carrying the weight of two countries on my shoulders.”
As the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics approach, Eileen Gu continues to demonstrate her prowess in the sport while navigating the complexities of her national identity.
