News
Chinese-Americans to Represent Opposing Nations at Olympics
Alysa Liu and Eileen Guo have found themselves at the center of a discussion that extends well beyond the realm of athletics.
A unique online dispute has emerged surrounding the Winter Olympics in Milan, with the focal point being the internet rather than the athletic events themselves.

At the center of this controversy are two young athletes: Eileen Gu, a skilled freestyle skier, and Alysa Liu, a talented figure skater. Both women share similar backgrounds, having been born and raised in the US to parents of Chinese heritage, and have achieved great success in their respective sports.
However, the perception of these two athletes differs greatly, with some in the US viewing one as a pioneer and the other as disloyal, while opinions on Chinese social media platforms are reversed.
The reason for this disparity lies in the fact that Alysa Liu is competing under the US flag, whereas Eileen Gu has chosen to represent China, despite her American upbringing and her mother's history of spending summers in Beijing.
This decision has sparked criticism from some Americans, with one social media post stating, "In a world where individuals like Eileen Gu choose to compete for China and receive substantial financial compensation, it's essential to admire those like Alysa Liu, who embody a different set of values."
The backlash against Eileen Gu appears to be driven primarily by political commentators and a vocal minority on social media, rather than the general public or the sports community. This phenomenon is influenced by the ongoing competition between the US and China, as the two global superpowers continually strive for dominance in various fields.
As a result, a small but vocal segment of the internet is pitting these two women against each other, questioning their loyalty, identity, and immigrant experiences, while adding to the pressure they already face as public figures in the sports world.
Eileen Gu, affectionately known as the "Snow Princess" in China, was born in California to a Chinese mother and an American father.
Following her parents' separation, Gu was raised by her mother, Yan Gu, a successful venture capitalist who holds degrees from both Peking University and Stanford.
Gu's upbringing was marked by a strong connection to both the US and China, with her spending summers in Beijing and attending a private school in San Francisco during the rest of the year.
She began freeskiing at the age of three in the Lake Tahoe region and joined the Northstar California Resort freeskiing team at eight, winning her first national championship just a year later.
Initially, Gu competed for the US, but she switched to Team China in 2019 in preparation for the 2022 Winter Olympics, which took place in Beijing.
Gu stated that her decision was motivated by a desire to "inspire millions of young people in Beijing, my mother's birthplace," earning her widespread praise in China.
She went on to win two gold medals and one silver medal at the 2022 Olympics.
In the years since, Gu has become a prominent sports icon in China, with millions of followers on social media and numerous accolades, including being named an "idol for the whole world" by the Chinese state media outlet Global Times.
Gu is also one of the highest-paid female athletes globally, with an estimated annual income of around $23 million.
Her initial decision to join Team China was met with significant backlash, largely due to concerns about China's authoritarian government, human rights record, and restrictions on free speech.
However, the controversy surrounding Gu had largely subsided until recently.
The issue resurfaced when Olympian Hunter Hess expressed "mixed feelings" about representing the US, given the country's current social and political climate.

Hess' comments were met with a response from President Donald Trump, who called him a "real loser" for speaking out. Gu defended Hess, stating that she understood the challenges of being caught in the crossfire.
Gu's comments sparked outrage among her critics, who argued that she had never publicly spoken out against China's human rights abuses.
Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom was among those who criticized Gu, calling her a "traitor" for competing against her birth country and allegedly promoting the interests of the Chinese Communist Party.
Kanter Freedom stated that Gu enjoyed the benefits of US citizenship while serving as a global ambassador for China, which has been accused of numerous human rights violations.
Another critic, Matt Whitlock, questioned Gu's silence on China's human rights record, asking if she had any criticism for Chinese leader Xi Jinping regarding the country's alleged genocide, slavery, and suppression of dissent.
The controversy surrounding Gu and Liu has been fueled by the increasingly tense relationship between the US and China, with some arguing that the stakes are higher for athletes competing for either country.
According to Professor Yinan He of Lehigh University, the current "New Cold War" climate between the US and China has led to a heightened sense of nationalism, making it more difficult for athletes with dual identities to navigate their loyalties.
As a result, the public's perception of athletes like Gu and Liu is often centered on their national loyalty, with little tolerance for those who may be seen as deviating from expected norms.
Recently, Gu expressed feelings of pressure, stating that she was "skiing with the weight of two countries on my shoulder" after losing the gold medal in women's slopestyle.
While some supporters saw this as a moment of vulnerability, others took offense to her comments, arguing that she was only representing one country and that it wasn't the US.
The comparison between Gu and Liu has been reignited, with many drawing parallels between the two athletes and their choices.
Alysa Liu, a 20-year-old figure skater, is the daughter of Arthur Liu, a Chinese dissident who fled the country after participating in the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.

Liu's family history has made her a sensitive topic on Chinese social media, with some users criticizing those who praise her, citing her family's anti-China stance.
Raised in California, Liu began figure skating at a young age and became the youngest athlete to win the US women's figure skating championship at 13.
In 2019, Arthur Liu alleged that he was targeted in a spying operation ordered by the Chinese government, and his daughter reported being informed by the FBI in 2022 that she and her family were likely under Chinese surveillance.
The sympathy and admiration for Liu have, in part, contributed to the criticism of Gu, with some arguing that Liu's story and values are more relatable and admirable.
According to Professor He, the divide between Liu and Gu is not only about nationalism but also about class and relatability, with Gu representing a luxury culture and her decision to compete for China being seen as a "mercenary business decision."
A post on social media by the non-profit group Asians for Liberty stated, "A true American rejects the lure of wealth and fame from the Chinese Communist Party, and Alysa Liu is an American patriot."
Professor Richard King of Columbia College Chicago noted that the media and public perception of Liu and Gu have been framed by their respective stories, with Liu being cast as the "good immigrant" and Gu as the "bad immigrant."

Chinese Australian dissident artist Badiucao created drawings of the athletes, depicting Liu in front of a Tiananmen tank and Gu holding a Chinese flag with hidden bodies, symbolizing the human rights allegations against China.
The far-right news website The Daily Caller published an article titled "Meet Eileen Gu, the true villain of the Winter Olympics," further fueling the controversy surrounding Gu's decision to compete for China.
According to Professor Stanley Thangaraj of Stonehill College, the situation highlights the complex social and political environment that Asian Americans must contend with. He notes that they are often recognized in a limited capacity, and any form of political expression can lead to their exclusion from American society.
When Marvel actor Simu Liu expressed his support for Gu, describing her as "inspirational, resilient, intelligent, and well-spoken in two languages," he faced a wave of criticism. Some comments even told him to "go back to China," illustrating the backlash that prominent Asian Americans can encounter when speaking out.
As the competition unfolds in Milan, the athletic events themselves have taken a backseat to discussions surrounding the athletes involved.
Professor He observes that, despite sharing similar racial backgrounds and experiences as first-generation immigrants, the two athletes have been portrayed as opposing figures in a narrative beyond their control.
News
Probe Underway into DNA Discovered at Nancy Guthrie’s Residence
According to the sheriff’s department, efforts are underway to determine the owner of the DNA, although the location of its discovery has not been released.
Local authorities have discovered DNA at the residence of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of American news anchor Savannah Guthrie, that does not match her or anyone in her close circle, according to officials.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department is currently working to determine the origin of the unidentified DNA, but has not disclosed its exact location.
Several gloves have been found by investigators, with one discovered approximately two miles away from Nancy Guthrie's residence.
Nancy Guthrie, 84, vanished from her Tucson, Arizona home nearly two weeks ago, and authorities suspect she was taken against her will.
The sheriff's department has clarified that reports of a glove being found inside or on the property of Nancy Guthrie's home are incorrect.
All evidence collected has been submitted for laboratory analysis, according to the department.
On Thursday, the FBI released a description of the suspect, stating that the individual is a male, approximately 5ft 9in to 5ft 10in (175-177cm) tall, with a medium build.
Investigators were able to gather identifying details about the suspect by analyzing footage from a doorbell camera located outside Nancy Guthrie's home.
The suspect was seen wearing a 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack in the footage, as reported by the FBI.
Following the release of the doorbell footage, investigators received over 13,000 tips, including 4,000 within a 24-hour period.
The FBI has increased the reward for information regarding Nancy Guthrie's disappearance from $50,000 (£36,700) to $100,000.
The county sheriff's department stated that the suspect description remains a primary focus of the investigation, but added that no individual or possibility is being ruled out.
Investigators have also made a broader appeal for neighbors to share any video footage that may be relevant to the case.
Authorities have noted that Nancy Guthrie, 84, requires daily medication and has limited mobility.
Savannah Guthrie and her two siblings have posted multiple social media appeals directed at their mother's abductor.
The family believes Nancy Guthrie is still alive and has indicated their willingness to pay for her safe return.
News
Malinin Crashes to Eighth in Free Skate Upset
At the Milan-Cortina 2026 event, USA’s Ilia Malinin, heavily tipped to claim the men’s figure skating title, experienced a disappointing outing, suffering two falls, which ultimately led to him finishing off the podium, while Kazakhstan’s Mikhail Shaidorov secured the top spot and the gold medal.
At the Milan-Cortina 2026 event, Ilia Malinin of the USA, who was heavily tipped to win the men's figure skating gold, experienced a disappointing performance, falling twice and ultimately missing the podium, allowing Kazakhstan's Mikhail Shaidorov to claim the top spot.
For further information, Mikhail Shaidorov's gold medal win is detailed in a separate article, which also discusses Ilia Malinin's unexpected loss.
Access to additional content is restricted to users based in the UK.
Business
Decline of Dining Out Trend Raises Concerns
According to the restaurant industry, it is currently dealing with a dual challenge: increasing expenses and a decrease in consumer spending power.
James Deegan's go-to order at his favorite restaurant, the grilled chicken burger, has lost its appeal due to a significant price hike.

The price increase from £12 to £18, plus the cost of a drink, has made dining out a costly affair for James.
This substantial price jump has led to James reducing his restaurant visits to just a couple of times a month, as he can no longer afford to dine out as frequently as he used to.
As a 27-year-old carer for autistic individuals, James must closely monitor his expenses to cover all his outgoings, limiting his social activities in the process.
James emphasizes the need to budget for small pleasures, which he once took for granted, in order to make ends meet.
The UK's cost of living crisis has been well-documented, with James having relied on a food bank in the past when his finances were strained, and one of its effects is a decrease in people's disposable income.
This reduction in disposable income means people have less money to spend on social activities, such as vacations, drinks at the pub, or eating out at restaurants.
The hospitality industry is facing a significant challenge due to decreased consumer spending and rising business costs, including taxes, food, wages, and energy expenses.
Many restaurants have increased their prices to remain operational, but some have still been forced to close down.

According to the Hospitality Market Monitor, the number of restaurants in the UK decreased by nearly a fifth between December 2019 and December 2025, from 43,000 to 35,500.
A YouGov report found that people in Britain are dining out less frequently, with the majority citing price increases and the rising cost of living as the primary reasons.
The report, published in October, surveyed 2,000 respondents, with 38% stating they were eating out less often than the previous year.
Of those who reported eating out less, 63% attributed it to price increases, while 62% cited the increased cost of living.
Petrit Velaj, a 30-year veteran of the restaurant industry, opened his own Greek restaurant, Rozafa, in central Manchester in 2010.
Rozafa has received awards for its cuisine and has hosted famous diners, including Priscilla Presley and Boris Johnson.
Petrit, who hails from Corfu, enjoys sharing traditional Greek culture and music with his customers, in addition to serving authentic Greek dishes.
However, he is uncertain about the restaurant's future prospects.
Petrit expressed his passion for cooking and providing excellent service, stating that it brings him joy to see customers happy.

He explained that for every £100 the restaurant earns, approximately £55 goes towards paying various taxes, leaving £45 to cover other expenses.
These expenses, including gas, electricity, water, rent, food, and wages, have increased over the years, making it challenging for the restaurant to operate.
As the owner of two restaurants, including one in Stockport, Petrit is responsible for 18 employees, some of whom have been with him for 20 years.
He is aware of the financial burdens his staff face and sometimes forgoes his own salary to ensure they are paid.
Fortunately, Petrit's children are now financially independent, alleviating some of his concerns.
He believes that running a restaurant has become increasingly difficult since he started in the industry.
Petrit, like many chefs, is critical of National Insurance rises and increasing business rates, as well as local issues such as limited parking and unclean streets, which deter customers.
Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay shares Petrit's concerns about tax, warning that restaurants are "facing a bloodbath" and advocating for more cautious implementation of business rate increases.
Shortly after Ramsay's comments, the government announced a support package for pubs, but not restaurants.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressed particular concern about the impact of business rates on pubs compared to other high street businesses.
Petrit fears the potential closure of Rozafa, not only for himself and his staff but also for the local community it serves.
Several well-known restaurants in Manchester city centre, including TNQ Restaurant & Bar, have closed down in the past year.
Petrit believes that restaurants play a vital role in society, providing a space for people to come together and experience different cultures.
Kate Nicholls, chairwoman of the UK Hospitality trade body, agrees that restaurants are essential to the cultural and economic well-being of British towns and cities.
Nicholls emphasizes the importance of restaurants in creating jobs and attracting people to high streets, which in turn benefits other local businesses.
She stresses that restaurants are valuable assets that must be supported to prevent their loss.

Nicholls warns that if restaurants are not utilized, they will be lost, highlighting the need for community support.
Even individuals with above-average disposable incomes are feeling the effects of the higher cost of living, leading to changes in their dining habits.
Vicki Broadbent, a children's author and parenting blogger, comes from a family of restaurateurs and values the importance of restaurants in bringing people together.
Vicki and her husband, who live in Harrogate with their three children, typically dine out once a week, which they consider a privilege.
For Vicki, dining out is not only about enjoying good food but also about spending quality time with her family and reconnecting after a busy schedule.
However, as a higher rate taxpayer, Vicki and her husband are also feeling the financial strain and have adapted their restaurant habits accordingly.
Vicki notes that she and her family have stopped ordering starters due to their high cost, with prices ranging from £7-9 per dish, which could be better spent on a more substantial main course.
The expense of dining out is further compounded by Vicki's two teenage boys, who have outgrown the children's menu and now require more substantial portions, driving up the overall cost of their meals.
To keep costs in check, Vicki and her husband typically opt for soft drinks and water instead of alcoholic beverages, reserving the latter for special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries.

In an effort to save money, the Broadbents sometimes choose to order takeaways instead of eating out, although Vicki observes that portion sizes have decreased over time, making it challenging to find good value.
Vicki remarks that the value of takeaways is often short-lived, as her teenagers tend to feel hungry again just a few hours later, leading her to question the worth of spending £100 on a meal that does not provide long-lasting satisfaction.
When selecting a restaurant, Vicki is often swayed by establishments that offer discounts, a strategy that Sarika Rana, head of consumer research at YouGov, says is common among many diners.
According to YouGov's October report, the rising cost of living is significantly influencing people's dining habits, with many still valuing the experience of eating out but being forced to make adjustments due to financial constraints.
The report found that half of the surveyed diners had altered their behavior to save money, with strategies including choosing less expensive restaurants and reducing the number of dishes ordered, while 46% of respondents said they forego desserts altogether.
In Crewe, James is being mindful of his expenses, recognizing that careful budgeting is necessary to enjoy a meal with friends or family without breaking the bank.
For James, eating out serves as a vital way to unwind and recharge after periods of intense care work, but he wishes that indulging in such small pleasures did not require so much financial planning and effort.
James expresses frustration at the difficulty of affording modest luxuries like dining out, describing the situation as "crazy" and "ridiculous".
-
News23 hours agoAustralian Politics Faces Questions Over Gender Equality Amid Sussan Ley’s Appointment
-
News20 hours agoFarage Says Reform to Replace Traditional Tory Party
-
News20 hours agoWrexham Pair Seek Win Against Former Team Ipswich
-
News1 day agoLiberal Party Removes Australia’s First Female Leader
-
News23 hours agoUK Braces for Cold Snap with Snow and Ice Alerts Expected
-
News20 hours agoHusband’s alleged £600k theft for sex and antiques blamed on drug side effects
-
News3 days agoSunbed ads spreading harmful misinformation to young people
-
Business1 day agoBBC Reporter Exposed to Cyber Attack Due to Vulnerabilities in AI Coding Tool
