Olympic gold winner dismisses athletes' negative comments on representing US: 'I think we're the best country'

Stolz Embraces US Representation After Athletes' Doubts

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Jordan Stolz dismissed reservations expressed by fellow U.S. athletes about representing their country at the Milan Winter Games. The speedskater, who won gold in the men's 500-meter event on Feb. 14, 2026, told Fox News Digital he paid little attention to such comments. "I'm always happy to represent the USA," Stolz said. "I think we're the best country."

Freeskier Hunter Hess described mixed emotions about competing for the U.S. in Milan, citing issues at home that troubled him and others. "Just because I’m wearing the flag doesn't mean I represent everything that’s going on in the U.S.," Hess said in February. "I just kind of want to do it for my friends and my family and the people that support me." Those remarks drew criticism from President Donald Trump, who called Hess a "real loser."

Alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin voiced similar unease, noting global hardships including violence in America. "It can be tough to reconcile that when you're also competing for medals at an Olympic event," she said. Sprinter Noah Lyles called representing the U.S. bittersweet ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics, mentioning challenges faced by Black Americans.

In contrast, Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper emphasized the honor of wearing the Stars and Stripes ahead of the World Baseball Classic. "Representing your country, there's nothing greater than representing your country," Harper said. "There's really nothing at all."