Eileen Gu Makes History at Milano Cortina 2026: Six Medals in Six Events

MILAN, 23 February 2026 — As the flame of the XXV Olympic Winter Games begins to dim in Italy, one name stands above all others in the snow sports pantheon: Eileen Gu. The 22-year-old freestyle skiing sensation concluded her Milano Cortina 2026 campaign yesterday, securing her place as the most decorated freestyle skier in Olympic history. However, her historic achievement on the slopes of Livigno was overshadowed by personal tragedy, as the athlete revealed the passing of her grandmother shortly after her final victory.

A Perfect Record: Six for Six

Eileen Gu entered the 2026 Winter Olympics with immense pressure to replicate her “triple threat” performance from Beijing 2022. She did not disappoint. By winning three medals in Italy—one gold and two silvers—Gu has now reached the podium in every single Olympic event she has ever entered.

The Halfpipe Defence

On Sunday, 22 February, Gu delivered a masterclass in the women’s freeski halfpipe final. Her final run, which earned a staggering score of 94.75, secured her second consecutive Olympic gold medal in the discipline. This victory makes her the first freestyle skier to successfully defend an Olympic halfpipe title.

Silver Success in Big Air and Slopestyle

While she was unable to defend her Big Air gold from 2022, Gu’s consistency remained unmatched. She secured silver medals in both the Freeski Big Air and Freeski Slopestyle events earlier in the Games. With a career total of six Olympic medals (three gold, three silver), she has officially surpassed all previous records for freestyle skiers, regardless of gender.

Triumph Amidst Tragedy

The scenes at the bottom of the halfpipe yesterday were uncharacteristically emotional for the usually composed “Snow Princess.” In a post-race interview that has since gone viral, Gu revealed through tears that she had learned of her grandmother’s death on the morning of the final.

“She was a steamship,” Gu told reporters, describing her grandmother as her primary inspiration. Gu dedicated her gold medal to her memory, stating that the loss occurred on 22 February, just hours before she took to the pipe for her final Olympic run of the 2026 Games.

The Ongoing Citizenship and Loyalty Debate

Despite her unprecedented success, Gu remains one of the most polarizing figures in international sports. Born in San Francisco but competing for China—her mother Yan Gu’s homeland—she continues to face intense scrutiny regarding her dual heritage and political stance.

Allegations of Harassment

During the 2026 Games, Gu spoke out about the darker side of her fame. She revealed that she has been the target of physical assaults and death threats since her decision to represent China became a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions. Critics in the United States have frequently labelled her a “traitor,” while her supporters in China view her as a national hero and a symbol of the “Chinese Dream.”

Eileen Gu’s Olympic Medal Count

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Olympic medals does Eileen Gu have?

As of the conclusion of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, Eileen Gu has won a total of six Olympic medals: three gold and three silver. She has won a medal in every Olympic event she has contested.

What happened to Eileen Gu’s grandmother?

Eileen Gu’s grandmother passed away on 22 February 2026. Gu learned of the news shortly before competing in the halfpipe final, where she went on to win the gold medal in her grandmother’s honour.

Is Eileen Gu still competing for China?

Yes, Eileen Gu represented China at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, continuing the partnership she began ahead of the 2022 Beijing Games. She remains a US-born athlete with deep ties to both nations.

What is Eileen Gu’s age?

Born on 3 September 2003, Eileen Gu is currently 22 years old as of the 2026 Winter Olympics.