Laura Woods has come to the defense of Winter Olympics star Eileen Gu, who faced significant backlash for her decision to represent China rather than the United States in recent competitions. Gu, who grew up in California, opted to compete for China due to her mother's heritage, igniting a firestorm of criticism from fans and commentators alike, particularly given the cultural and political contexts surrounding the Olympic Games.

During the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Gu not only competed in but also excelled at several events, bringing home a gold medal in the women's halfpipe and silver medals in big air and slopestyle. However, despite her impressive achievements, Gu faced scrutiny when she responded to a question about her silver medals feeling like lost golds. Her reply emphasized her status as the most decorated female freeskier in history, which seemed to further fuel the ongoing discourse regarding her dual heritage and national representation.

The criticism Woods addressed highlights broader themes of national identity and loyalty, particularly among athletes with dual heritage. As global sporting events often intertwine with national pride, Gu's situation illustrates the tension faced by athletes who navigate their multicultural identities in competitive settings. Woods' support aims to shift the conversation towards celebrating Gu's achievements rather than fixating on her nationality, which can often overshadow an athlete's hard work and talent.