Lauren Jortberg, a U.S. cross-country skier, publicly condemned President Donald Trump for his derogatory remarks towards fellow skier Hunter Hess. Trump had labeled Hess a 'loser' for expressing his discomfort with representing the U.S. in the Winter Olympics. This comment was made in a social media post where Trump questioned Hess's commitment to the team, suggesting that if Hess felt conflicted about national representation, he shouldn't have pursued a spot on the Olympic team.

Jortberg spoke out during the Olympic sprint event, highlighting the immaturity of calling someone a 'loser' simply for holding a differing opinion. According to Jortberg, Trump's comments represent an unproductive attitude towards disagreement and undermine the spirit of sportsmanship. She expressed concern over the pressures athletes feel to align with political rhetoric, especially when it contradicts their personal beliefs or emotions about representing their country.

The implications of such political discourse in the world of sports are significant, as athletes are not only competitors but also public figures who often face scrutiny over their opinions and assertions. Jortberg's remarks underscore a larger debate within the sporting community about the intersection of politics and athletics, especially as events like the Winter Olympics draw global attention and provoke discussions about national identity, representation, and personal integrity.