The 2026 Winter Olympics officially kicked off with Friday’s Opening Ceremony in Milano-Cortina, with 232 athletes representing Team USA.
But back home, immigration enforcement raids and protests continue across the US. Amid a tumultuous political backdrop, Olympic skiers Chris Lillis and Hunter Hess opened up about the “mixed emotions” they feel about representing the country right now.
“I feel heartbroken about what’s happened in the United States,” said 27-year-old Olympic gold medalist Chris Lillis. “I think that as a country we need to focus on respecting everybody’s rights and making sure that we’re treating our citizens as well as anybody with love and respect.”
“I hope that when people look at athletes compete in the Olympics, they realize that that’s the America we’re trying to represent,” he continued.
“It brings up mixed emotions to represent the US right now I think,” said 27-year-old freestyle halfpipe skier Hunter Hess. “It’s a little hard there’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of, and I think a lot of people aren’t.”
“Just cause I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the US,” he added.
The clip, which has since circulated across social media, has garnered attention from people around the world as the games begin. Many are applauding the skiers for speaking out:
“Good for him for speaking out. We don’t hold anything against US athletes with human decency and compassion. Signed this Canadian.”
“The most American thing I have seen all day.”
Still, some aren’t too pleased.
“What a disgusting answer. When you’re out there representing our country you have to be proud of it. Whether you’re a Republican democrat or independent.”
“Disgusting. They’re free to represent some other country.”
Others pointed out how “sad” and “embarrassing” it is that Olympians have to address the world on behalf of the country.
“What a sad state of our country that our athletes are apologizing for this shitshow going on right now.”
“How embarrassing for these athletes to have to answer for their felon in chief’s corruption and crime but tell us again @realDonaldTrump how the US is admired across the world.”
And some are saying how “patriotic” it is to speak out against the country’s injustices on the world stage.
“The most patriotic thing you can do is criticize your own country in pursuit of making it better — even if it means doing it on the world stage. Break the illusion.”
“Alot of people are gonna take issue with this but what they’ll fail to see is that there is nothing more American than being able to speak out against your country with a microphone infront of you. Good on these guys.”
“Dissent is the highest form of patriotism.”
Well, as the administration continues to pretend that everything they do is nothing but correct and that the whole world loves America, our Vice President is in Milan, apparently getting booed by thousands in the crowd. So, it’s safe to say whatever backlash the administration may give to those who speak out – including these skiers — the rest of the world seems to be on their side.