Eileen Gu (Gu Ailing) is a Chinese American freestyle skier and fashion model who became a global star after winning three medals for China at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, including two golds and one silver in freestyle skiing events.

Who Eileen Gu Is

Eileen Feng Gu, known in Chinese as Gu Ailing, was born on September 3, 2003, in San Francisco, California, to a Chinese mother and an American father. She grew up skiing in Lake Tahoe from the age of three and quickly advanced through U.S. junior freeski circuits before emerging as an elite international competitor.

Olympic Breakthrough

At the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, Gu won gold medals in big air and halfpipe and a silver in slopestyle, becoming the first freestyle skier ever to win three medals at a single Winter Games. At 18, she was also the youngest Olympic champion in freestyle skiing, cementing her status as one of the sport’s most dominant athletes.

Representing China

Although born and raised in the United States, Gu chose in 2019 to compete internationally for China, saying she wanted to inspire young Chinese girls and promote winter sports participation. That decision, made against the backdrop of U.S.–China geopolitical tension, drew intense debate and media scrutiny about nationality, identity, and soft power.

Beyond Skiing: Fashion and Media

Gu is also a high-profile model and fashion figure, appearing in major campaigns and attending events such as the Met Gala, which has amplified her image as both an elite athlete and style icon. Her polished public presence and large social media following have turned her into a cross‑over celebrity who bridges sports, fashion, and youth culture.

Education and Recent Focus

Academically, Gu earned early admission to Stanford University, where she has studied international relations while balancing her sports and commercial commitments. She has taken time off from her studies in the 2025–26 academic year to focus on preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics, keeping her competitive ambitions at the center of her plans.

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