President Donald Trump has sharply criticized U.S. freestyle skier Hunter Hess, labeling him a “real loser” on his Truth Social platform after the 27-year-old Olympian admitted to having “mixed emotions” about representing the United States at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The exchange highlights the ongoing intersection of sports, politics, and national identity during the Games, where athletes have increasingly voiced concerns about domestic issues.

Hess, a Bend, Oregon native competing in his first Olympics, made the comments during a press conference on February 6 in Milan. When asked what it means to wear the Team USA uniform in the current political climate—marked by heightened immigration enforcement, including ICE operations, and broader divisions—Hess responded thoughtfully. “It brings up mixed emotions to represent the U.S. right now, I think. It’s a little hard,” he said. “There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of, and I think a lot of people aren’t.” He clarified that he was competing for his friends, family, and the positive aspects of America that align with his values. “Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the U.S.,” Hess added, emphasizing he wanted to represent the good in the country and those who supported his journey.

The remarks, made in response to a direct question from reporters, struck a chord amid reports of U.S. policies drawing international scrutiny. Hess, a two-time Winter X Games bronze medalist specializing in halfpipe, stressed pride in his country while acknowledging room for improvement—a sentiment he framed as part of America’s strength: the freedom to voice opinions.

Trump responded swiftly on Sunday, February 8, with a post on Truth Social: “U.S. Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesn’t represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If that’s the case, he shouldn’t have tried out for the Team, and it’s too bad he’s on it. Very hard to root for someone like this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” The president appeared to mischaracterize Hess’s words, interpreting them as outright rejection of national representation rather than nuanced ambivalence tied to specific concerns.

The backlash extended beyond Trump. Some conservative commentators and online users echoed the criticism, accusing Hess of ingratitude or disloyalty. Former “Miracle on Ice” hockey captain Mike Eruzione also weighed in, though his post was later deleted. Meanwhile, Hess faced a surge of online abuse, consistent with reports from the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee about increased threats toward athletes speaking on political topics.

Hess addressed the controversy in an Instagram post on February 9, reaffirming his patriotism while standing by his right to express views. “I love my country,” he wrote. “There is so much that is great about America, but there are always things that could be better. One of the many things that makes this country so amazing is that we have the right and the freedom to point that out.” He highlighted the Olympics’ unifying power: “The best part of the Olympics is that it brings people together, and when so many of us are divided we need that more than ever. I cannot wait to represent Team USA next week when I compete. Thanks to everyone for their support.”

Other U.S. athletes rallied in support or shared similar sentiments. Snowboarder Chloe Kim, whose parents are immigrants, spoke of pride in representing the U.S. while noting diversity strengthens the nation. Freestyle skier Eileen Gu and others emphasized unity amid division, with some pointing to the Games as a moment for healing. The U.S. delegation has seen multiple voices address domestic politics, including concerns over immigration tactics and societal rifts, reflecting a broader trend where athletes feel compelled to speak on issues affecting them or their communities.

Hess’s background adds layers to the story. Growing up in Oregon and training in Salt Lake City, he has long embodied the American dream of hard work leading to elite competition. His parents’ immigrant roots (noted in some coverage) made certain policies “hit close to home,” he said, underscoring personal stakes in national debates.

The incident fits into a pattern at these Olympics, where political undercurrents have surfaced. Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance faced boos at the opening ceremony, and figure skater Amber Glenn stepped back from social media after threats for LGBTQ+ advocacy. Hess’s case, however, drew direct presidential attention, amplifying the debate over whether athletes should “stick to sports” or use their platforms responsibly.

Supporters praised Hess for authenticity and courage, viewing his comments as patriotic dissent—exercising the very freedoms America champions. Critics argued such statements undermine team unity or disrespect the opportunity to compete under the flag.

As the Games progress through February 22, with freestyle skiing events drawing focus, Hess remains committed to performance. His story illustrates how the Olympics, meant to transcend politics, often reflect real-world divisions. In expressing mixed emotions, Hess highlighted a core American value: the ability to critique while still loving and serving one’s country.

The episode has sparked wider discussions on free speech, athlete activism, and the pressures of representing a polarized nation on the global stage. For Hess, the focus stays on competition, but his words—and Trump’s response—ensure the conversation continues beyond the slopes.