Eileen Gu: Freestyle Skiing's Rising Star

Feb 20, 2026

75 min

Feb 20, 2026 08:55

Eileen Gu: The freestyle skier who owns the spotlight

## Early Life and Background

Eileen Gu, born in San Francisco in 2003, has become a global sensation in freestyle skiing. With an American father and Chinese mother, she grew up fluent in Mandarin and embraced both cultures. Her skiing journey began at age three in Lake Tahoe, inspired by her mother.

## Career Milestones

Gu's talent quickly propelled her through the junior ranks, specializing in halfpipe, slopestyle, and big air. In 2019, she made headlines by choosing to compete for China, a decision that sparked debate but also elevated her profile internationally.

## Olympic Achievements

Gu's breakthrough came at the 2021 X Games Aspen, where she won multiple medals. Her fame skyrocketed at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, where she secured two golds and a silver, becoming the most decorated female freestyle skier of those Games. Her recent performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina added two more silver medals to her collection.

## Beyond the Slopes

Apart from her skiing success, Gu is also a model, a Stanford student, and a global brand ambassador, making her a cultural icon. Her achievements have earned her a spot on Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

## Personal Reflections

Gu has expressed pride in her dual heritage, stating she aims to inspire young people in Beijing. Despite criticism for her decision to represent China, she remains a beloved figure in both countries. Her confidence and determination continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

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