Olympic Skier Hunter Hess Responds to Trump’s Criticism with ‘L’ Gesture at Milan Cortina Games
MILAN, Italy — American Olympic freeskier Hunter Hess made headlines at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina when he responded to President Donald Trump’s sharp criticism with a pointed gesture. After completing his halfpipe qualifying run on February 20, Hess raised his hand to his forehead, forming an “L” with his thumb and index finger — a clear nod to Trump’s earlier social media post branding him a “real loser.”
Hess had sparked controversy prior to the gesture by expressing “mixed emotions” about representing the United States at the Games, remarks that drew swift rebuke from the former president. Trump’s criticism was widely covered, including by major outlets such as Fox News, which reported on the skier’s pointed response.
The skier’s candid admission of ambivalence about competing for the U.S. touched a nerve amid a highly charged political climate surrounding national pride and Olympic representation. Hess later explained the “L” gesture with a mix of irony and defiance, telling The Associated Press, “Apparently, I’m a loser.”
The incident highlights the increasingly complex intersection of sports and politics on the world stage, where athletes’ personal expressions and political statements often invite intense public scrutiny. The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee has historically encouraged athletes to focus on competition and unity, yet individual voices like Hess’s reflect broader societal debates.
Hess’s performance at the Games, held across Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, has been closely followed by fans and media alike. The International Olympic Committee oversees these Games, which aim to celebrate athletic excellence and international cooperation despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
While some critics have condemned Hess’s remarks and gesture as unpatriotic, others defend his right to express complex feelings about national identity and competition. The debate underscores the evolving role of athletes as both competitors and public figures in an era where social media amplifies every statement.
As the Games continue, Hess remains a figure of both athletic promise and cultural conversation, embodying the challenges and passions of representing one’s country on the global stage. For more information on the Olympic Games and athlete conduct, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency provides guidelines and oversight to ensure fair play and integrity in sport.
Leave a Reply