Eileen Gu’s decision to represent China keeps her the overwhelming favorite in Olympic freestyle skiing; punters should expect shortened odds on her winning gold or a podium spot in Milan–Cortina 2026. Backing Gu in futures or medal markets looks prudent, though value may appear in competitor or props markets if odds tighten or concerns about form arise.
Eileen Gu’s Switch to China Rewrites the Freestyle Skiing Script Ahead of Milan–Cortina
From San Francisco to the World Cup podium
Eileen Gu, born and raised in San Francisco and a Stanford graduate, has become the face of elite freestyle skiing. A former U.S. junior prospect who competed in three World Cups for the United States, Gu quickly rose to global prominence and delivered a standout performance by triple-medaling at the Beijing Winter Olympics.
The decision to represent China
In 2019 Gu made the high-profile switch to compete for China. Explaining her choice, she said: "The U.S. already has the representation. I like building my own pond. I’m glad that there’s enough money in the sport now for people to think that’s a consideration."
The move reflected both personal ambition and a desire to carve her own path on the world stage.
Reactions and fallout
The switch prompted intense debate. Officials acknowledged their disappointment but praised her results, calling her Olympic medal run a "storybook" moment. At the same time, critics questioned her motivations, generating headlines and public scrutiny that Gu has had to navigate while maintaining elite performance levels.
Implications for the 2026 Winter Olympics and betting markets
Gu enters Milan–Cortina as the overwhelming favorite in freestyle skiing events. For bettors, that likely means compressed odds on outright gold or podium futures.
Smart wagering strategies could include:
- Backing Gu in outright or podium markets early before odds shorten.
- Seeking value in head-to-head or event-prop markets where bookmakers may overreact to public sentiment.
- Monitoring injury updates and qualification formats; any uncertainty could reopen value on rivals.
What to watch on the road to Milan–Cortina
Keep an eye on Gu’s World Cup results, training reports, and event-specific conditions — halfpipe and slopestyle course changes can influence outcomes.
With the Winter Olympics starting on February 6, form and fitness in the run-up events will be crucial for both bettors and competitors assessing medal prospects.
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A born-and-raised American athlete has explained why she does not represent the nation and chose to do so for China ahead of the Winter Olympics
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