Livigno, Italy – Eileen Gu added another chapter to her remarkable Olympic story on Sunday, securing gold in the women’s freeski halfpipe at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. The victory, her third medal of these Games and the sixth of her career, was bittersweet, overshadowed by the news of her grandmother’s passing, learned immediately after her triumphant run. The 22-year-old Gu, representing China, delivered a stunning performance, but the celebration was tempered by profound grief.
The emotional weight of the day became clear shortly after Gu’s winning score. As reported by CGTN Sports Scene on X (formerly Twitter), Gu revealed the reason for her delayed appearance at the post-competition press conference: “The reason I was late is that I just found out that my grandma passed away. She was a really big part of my life growing up and someone I looked up to immensely.”
Gu’s connection with her maternal grandmother was deeply significant. She shared with reporters that she shares her middle name with her grandmother, and that the woman was a constant source of inspiration throughout her life. “She represented a lot for me growing up and is someone I admired,” Gu said, visibly moved. “She was a fighter. This woman controlled her own destiny, she took it into her own hands and did what she wanted. She inspired me so much.”
Six Medals at Just 22 Years Old
The athlete, born in San Francisco, has quickly become a global icon, balancing her athletic pursuits with academic excellence at Stanford University and a burgeoning modeling career. Her decision to compete for China, rather than the United States where she was raised, has been a subject of considerable discussion, but her focus on representing her mother’s homeland and expanding the sport’s reach remains central to her narrative. As Dan Wetzel of ESPN noted in February 2026, Gu’s choice, whereas controversial to some, reflects a uniquely American pursuit of opportunity.
Gu’s performance in Livigno followed silver medals in both the big air and slopestyle events earlier in the Games. She has now amassed six Olympic medals across two Winter Games, solidifying her status as one of the most decorated freestyle skiers in history. The halfpipe victory was particularly poignant, coming after a challenging period of personal loss.
Appearing visibly emotional during the press conference, Gu recounted her grandmother’s recent illness. “The last time I saw her before the Games, she was very sick, so I knew it was a possibility,” she shared. “I didn’t promise her I would win, but I promised her I would be brave, like she was. (…) I hope I made her proud, but it’s also a very tricky time.”
Gu’s journey to Olympic success has been marked by a dedication to representation. She previously explained that her decision to compete for China stemmed from a desire to inspire a broader audience, stating, “The U.S. Already has the representation,” referring to the established presence of American women in skiing. “I like building my own pond.” This commitment to expanding the sport’s reach, coupled with her exceptional athletic ability, has made her a compelling figure both in China and the United States.
The athlete’s success extends beyond the slopes. She boasts lucrative sponsorship deals and a significant social media following, further amplifying her influence. Her ability to seamlessly navigate two cultures and excel in multiple disciplines has cemented her position as a role model for aspiring athletes and a cultural phenomenon.
Looking ahead, Eileen Gu will undoubtedly continue to push the boundaries of freestyle skiing. While the pain of her grandmother’s passing is profound, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to channel her emotions into her performance. Her next competitive appearance is currently unconfirmed, but fans eagerly await her return to the slopes. Updates on her schedule will be available through official Olympic channels and her social media accounts.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics continue through February 23rd. For complete coverage of the Games, including schedules, results, and athlete profiles, visit the official Olympic website.
