Trump criticizes Olympic Skier for Comments about Representing US
U.S. president Donald Trump criticised American Olympic skier Hunter Hess, on Sunday. Days earlier, the athlete had expressed "mixed feelings" about representing the U.S. in the 'Winter Olympics' held in northern Italy.
Trump, in reference to Hess' remarks, wrote: "If that is the case, then he should not have tried out for Team USA, and it's a shame he's there." "Very difficult to root for someone like this."
The presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel at the Milano Cortina Olympics has sparked political tensions. After two agents in Minneapolis were shot and killed last month, the agency has faced protests all over the U.S.
Hess said that it was "a little hard" for him to represent the United States at a press conference held in Milan, Italy, on Friday. He also expressed mixed emotions.
He said, "There are a number of things that I don't like and many people do not either." "Just because I wear the flag does not mean that I represent all of what's happening in the U.S."
Chris Lillis, a member of the same ski team, spoke out against ICE during the news conference. He said he was heartbroken.
Lillis stated that "as a nation, we must?focus our attention on ensuring that we treat all of our citizens with love and respect." "I hope that when people see the athletes at the Olympics they will realize that this is the America that we are trying to represent."
A spokesperson for U.S. Ski & Snowboard didn't immediately respond to a comment request. Sheila Dang reported from Houston, Lisa A. Richwine contributed additional reporting in Milan and Sergio Non edited the story.
(source: Reuters)
