Staff Reports
The Winter Olympics always bring drama, excitement, and, of course, incredible athletic feats. This year has been no different, especially in the world of figure skating. Two athletes from the Bay Area, Alyssa Lou and Eileen Goo, have found themselves in the spotlight, embodying two very different narratives that shine a light on issues of nationality, loyalty, and personal choice.
Alyssa Lou recently achieved a monumental success by winning a gold medal, making her the first American woman to do so in figure skating in 24 years. Hailing from a family with roots in China, Alyssa is truly a symbol of perseverance. Her father is a survivor of the Tiananmen Square protests who fled to America to escape the oppressive regime of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Despite the influence of her family’s past, Alyssa has proudly represented the United States on the world stage. While some may consider her political leanings too progressive for comfort, she has remained respectful and dedicated to the country that has given her family refuge. This dedication is a breath of fresh air in a world where some athletes seem more eager to criticize their homeland than celebrate their victories.
In stark contrast, Eileen Goo made headlines not for her performance, which netted her a silver medal, but for the controversy surrounding her decision to compete for China. Eileen, a Stanford graduate who previously represented the U.S., made the leap to compete for the CCP only a few years ago. Many view her choice as a betrayal, especially given China’s ongoing human rights abuses and its repression of dissent. Watching Eileen compete raised eyebrows across America, as onlookers couldn’t help but wonder how an athlete could switch allegiances so readily for a lucrative contract.
The battle for national pride is not just a personal one for these athletes; it reflects a broader struggle between those who embrace American values and those who seem to turn their backs on them. Eileen Goo’s choice to represent China has resulted in hefty sponsorship deals, reportedly netting her around $20 million a year. This bounty, however, did not come without its moral cost. Many see her as a shining example of the pitfalls of elite privilege and a lack of gratitude for the opportunities the U.S. has provided her. While her resignation from representing America might earn her fortune, it certainly raises questions about loyalty and identity.
For many, the choice to cheer for Alyssa Lou is about more than just her stunning performances on the ice; it’s about celebrating an athlete who stands for something bigger. Lou’s father’s past, her family’s struggles, and her commitment to represent the values of freedom and opportunity in America resonate deeply with a patriotic audience. This is the kind of story that lifts spirits, fills hearts with pride, and reignites hope for the future.
As the Olympics unfold, the contrasting narratives of Alyssa Lou and Eileen Goo serve as reminders of the power of personal choice in an increasingly interconnected world. Alyssa’s triumph is not just a victory for herself but for an ideal that courageously defends the very essence of what it means to be American. While Eileen stands as a testament to the allure of fame and fortune, she also leaves behind her legacy open to scrutiny and criticism. It’s no longer just about medals but about the stories, identities, and values they represent. So here’s to Alyssa Lou — the darling of American ice, who reminds us all that greatness is defined not just by medals, but by integrity and heart.
