Trump Criticizes U.S. Skier Hess on Olympic Representation

U.S. President Donald Trump publicly criticized American Olympic skier Hunter Hess on Sunday, accusing him of failing to represent the country at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics in Italy.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, "U.S. Olympic Skier, Hunter Hess, a real Loser, says he doesnt represent his Country in the current Winter Olympics. If thats the case, he shouldnt have tried out for the Team, and its too bad hes on it. Very hard to root for someone like this. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" The remarks followed a press conference on Friday where Hess, a freestyle skier competing for Team USA, expressed ambivalence about wearing the U.S. flag.

Hess told reporters in Milan that he felt mixed emotions about representing the United States amid ongoing national issues. "Theres obviously a lot going on that Im not the biggest fan of, and I think a lot of people arent," he said. He added, "Just because Im wearing the flag doesnt mean I represent everything thats going on in the U.S." Instead, Hess emphasized that he was competing to honor his friends, family, and the positive values he associates with America, particularly those aligned with his moral principles.