American aerial skiers Chris Lillis and Hunter Hess have sparked controversy at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics by expressing conflicted feelings about representing the United States amid ongoing immigration enforcement actions.
Skiers Voice Reservations
The Milan-Cortina Games began on Friday, drawing global attention as athletes paraded through Milan’s San Siro stadium. Lillis, an aerials specialist, described himself as heartbroken over operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents under President Donald Trump. He emphasized that the nation should prioritize respecting everyone’s rights and treating all citizens with love and respect.
Hess echoed similar sentiments, admitting mixed emotions about competing for Team USA. “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. Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the US.”
Strong Public Reaction
The athletes’ comments have ignited fury among some Americans, with social media users demanding their removal from the team. One poster stated, “You shouldn’t be representing the U.S.A. if you hate it here.” Another urged, “Chris Lillis and Hunter Hess should be sent back home immediately. They have insulted our entire nation on the world stage.”
Additional reactions included calls to prioritize sports over politics: “I won’t watch the Olympics anymore or support Team USA if they can’t just be athletes and proudly represent their country.” Critics labeled the remarks as anti-American and insisted such athletes stay home if unwilling to fully embrace national pride.
Protests and Ceremony Boos
Tensions escalated ahead of the Games, with protests against ICE deployments sweeping Milan streets. Demonstrations intensified following the fatal shooting of two US citizens by officers weeks earlier. Protests continue both in the US and internationally.
During Friday’s opening ceremony, Team USA faced boos from the Italian crowd as they entered the stadium, led by flagbearers speed skater Erin Jackson and bobsleigh athlete Frankie del Luca. Jeers grew louder when US Vice President JD Vance appeared on screen. Despite the reception, athletes and Vance maintained composure while greeting spectators.
Team USA proceeds with competitions as global attention focuses on both athletic performances and surrounding controversies.
