American Olympic skier Hunter Hess said he “cannot wait to represent Team USA” after drawing national attention — and sharp criticism from Donald Trump — for comments expressing “mixed emotions” about representing the United States at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics, as reported by Fox News.

Hess, who is expected to compete at the Winter Games in Italy, initially sparked controversy last week after telling reporters he felt conflicted about wearing the American flag amid recent political and law enforcement controversies.

His remarks prompted backlash from conservatives, including President Trump, who publicly criticized the skier and referred to him as a “real loser.”

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After several days of criticism, Hess addressed the controversy in a social media post, emphasizing his pride in representing the country.

“I love my country,” Hess wrote alongside an American flag emoji. “There is so much that is great about America, but there are always things that could be better.

“One of the many things that makes this country so amazing is that we have the right and the freedom to point that out. The best part of the Olympics is that it brings people together, and when so many of us are divided, we need that more than ever. I cannot wait to represent Team USA next week when I compete.”

 

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A post shared by Hunter Hess (@hunterhess10)

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Hess’ original comments came as the Trump administration faced criticism from the left over immigration enforcement actions carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol.

Those controversies followed a January incident in Minnesota in which Renee Good was killed during an encounter involving ICE agents, as well as a separate deadly encounter involving Border Patrol agents and Alex Pretti.

Those incidents were cited as part of the context behind comments made by Hess and his teammate Chris Lillis.

“It brings up mixed emotions to represent the U.S. right now, I think. It’s a little hard. There’s obviously a lot going on that I’m not the biggest fan of, and I think a lot of people aren’t,” Hess said during his initial remarks.

He continued by explaining how he views his role as an athlete representing the country.

“I think, for me, it’s more I’m representing my friends and family back home, the people that represented it before me, all the things that I believe are good about the U.S. If it aligns with my moral values, I feel like I’m representing it. Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I represent everything that’s going on in the U.S. I just kind of want to do it for my friends and my family and the people that support me getting here.”

What a disappointing message by USA Olympic Skier Hunter Hess.

You can proud of your country and not support the sitting presidents policies.

Olympians like @MensahTamStock celebrated with class. pic.twitter.com/FLLkeFfJ4M

— Patrick Bet-David (@patrickbetdavid) February 7, 2026

President Trump responded forcefully to those comments, singling out Hess and dismissing him publicly.

🚨 BREAKING: President Trump has a message for the anti-American American Olympic athletes like Hunter Hess:

“If that’s the case, he shouldn’t have tried out for the team, and it’s too bad he’s on it.”

Trump’s right! pic.twitter.com/6aeiDfIEBt

— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) February 8, 2026

The criticism quickly amplified across social media, with many conservatives arguing that Olympic athletes should represent the country without qualification.

Hess’ follow-up statement appeared aimed at clarifying his position and reinforcing his willingness to compete under the American flag as he prepares for the Games.

The Winter Olympics in Italy are scheduled for 2026, with Team USA athletes set to begin competition next week in qualifying and preparatory events.