Eileen Gu responded firmly after JD Vance
Opening Night at San Siro Stadium
Under bright lights in Milan, the 2026 Winter Olympics opened with music, flags, and global celebration. U.S. Vice President JD Vance attended with his wife as athletes entered the arena.
Team USA received loud cheers, but Vance drew mixed reactions—some applause, some disapproval—showing how politics can surface even at international sporting events.
Sport and Politics Intersect
The Olympics aim to celebrate unity, perseverance, and achievement. Athletes compete as symbols of dedication and
national pride. Organizers stressed respect and sportsmanship, yet public figures are rarely viewed without political context, especially on a global stage.
Reactions at Home
In the United States, social media quickly filled with debate. Some viewers focused on the spectacle and upcoming competition, while others
discussed how American leaders are perceived abroad. Leadership visibility, the ceremony showed, naturally invites both praise and criticism.
The Bigger Message
Despite brief reactions, the ceremony emphasized that the Games are larger than politics. Lasting memories will come
from athletes’ resilience and performance, reminding audiences that sport can unite people across nations.
