U.S. figure skater Amber Glenn, fresh off winning gold in the team event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, has announced she is stepping back from social media following a barrage of online hate and threats triggered by her comments on the political climate facing the LGBTQ+ community under President Donald Trump.

The 26-year-old from Plano, Texas, made headlines during a pre-Games press conference on February 4 when a reporter asked about the Trump administration’s approach to LGBTQ+ issues. As the first openly queer woman to represent the United States in Olympic figure skating, Glenn spoke candidly: “It’s been a hard time for the community overall under this administration.” She described the period as challenging but noted it had made people stronger, emphasizing unity and resilience. Glenn stressed her commitment to using her platform responsibly, saying politics affect everyone and that she would not remain silent on matters impacting daily lives and human rights.

The remarks, delivered in the context of her identity as a pansexual and bisexual advocate, quickly drew backlash. By February 7, Glenn shared on her Instagram Stories that she had received “a scary amount of hate/threats” for simply responding when asked. She expressed disappointment, noting she had anticipated some pushback but was stunned by the intensity—particularly the volume of messages wishing her harm. “I’ve never had so many people wish me harm before, just for being me and speaking out about being decent and, like, human rights,” she later told reporters.

In response, Glenn decided to limit her social media presence for her mental well-being. She made clear this was temporary and not a retreat from her beliefs: “I will never stop using my voice for what I believe in.” The decision came amid a packed Olympic schedule, where she competed in individual events following the team triumph on February 8.

The backlash unfolded against the backdrop of broader tensions at the Games. The Olympics have seen other U.S. athletes navigate political questions, with some facing criticism for expressing concerns about domestic issues. Glenn’s comments aligned with a growing chorus of LGBTQ+ voices highlighting perceived challenges, including policy shifts and societal pressures. Fellow athletes, including some from the LGBTQ+ community, have reported similar experiences of harassment online.

Glenn’s advocacy is longstanding. She has worn Pride pins during competitions, skated with rainbow flags in victory laps at national championships, and consistently spoken about inclusion. At the Milan Games, she sported an LGBTQ+ pin on her team jacket during the medal ceremony, a visible symbol of solidarity despite the controversy.

The threats have prompted concern among advocates and fellow Olympians. Reports indicate an uptick in abusive messages directed at those voicing support for queer rights or criticizing aspects of the current administration. Some outlets noted that LGBTQ+ athletes have been disproportionately targeted, with death threats reported in related cases.

Glenn’s story highlights the risks public figures face when engaging on sensitive topics. Freedom of speech, which she praised as a core American value, clashed with the harsh realities of online discourse. Her choice to step back underscores the toll such vitriol can take, even on high-achieving athletes at the peak of their careers.

Despite the distractions, Glenn’s on-ice performance remained strong. The team gold—contributed to by her and her U.S. teammates—marked a high point, celebrated amid the ceremony’s themes of unity and connection. Off the ice, however, the episode has sparked discussions about athlete activism, the intersection of sports and politics, and the need for better protections against online harassment.

Supporters have rallied around Glenn, praising her courage and authenticity. Many in the figure skating community and beyond expressed solidarity, viewing her as a role model for using visibility to advocate for marginalized groups. Critics, meanwhile, argued athletes should “stick to sports,” a refrain Glenn directly addressed by noting politics inevitably touches lives.

As the Milano Cortina Games continue, with individual figure skating events drawing global attention, Glenn’s temporary social media hiatus serves as a reminder of the personal costs of public advocacy. She remains focused on competition while reaffirming her commitment to speaking out when it matters. For Glenn, the platform of the Olympics is not just about medals—it’s about standing for decency, rights, and hope in challenging times.

The incident has also fueled conversations about mental health in sports, particularly for those in the spotlight during politically charged moments. Glenn’s measured response—acknowledging disappointment but refusing to be silenced—has resonated with many, positioning her as a resilient voice amid adversity.

In a year where the Winter Olympics intersected with real-world divisions, Amber Glenn’s experience encapsulates the complexities athletes face when their identities and beliefs enter the arena. Her decision to prioritize well-being while holding firm to her principles offers a poignant example of balancing advocacy with self-care at the highest level of competition.