Olympic champions Chloe Kim and Eileen Gu have rallied behind American freeskier Hunter Hess after he faced backlash from former President Donald Trump. Hess sparked controversy by questioning the administration's immigration policies while representing the U.S. at the Winter Games in Livigno, Italy.

Trump lashed out on Truth Social, calling Hess "a real Loser" and suggesting he'd be hard-pressed to root for him. The criticism hit home for Kim, whose parents are South Korean immigrants who have faced racism throughout her career. Gu, who competes for China despite being born in San Francisco, said she's been in touch with Hess and understands his position.

Fellow American snowboarders Bea Kim and Maddie Mastro also spoke out, emphasizing the importance of diversity and the right to express opinions. "I represent a country that has the same values as mine of kindness and compassion," Mastro said. Gu called it "an unwinnable press war" for Hess and lamented that the controversy could overshadow the Olympic spirit. The athletes' unified defense highlights the complex intersection of sports, politics, and personal expression at the international level.