Gu Adds Second Silver in Milan, Eyes Podium Finish in U-Shape
Eileen Gu added to her medal count at the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics, securing a silver medal in the women’s freestyle ski big air final on Monday. This marks her second silver of the games, following a silver in the slopestyle event. The 22-year-old is now aiming for a third medal in the women’s halfpipe competition on Friday.
Gu finished with a score of 179.00, just 1.75 points behind Canada’s Megan Oldham, who took gold with a score of 180.75. Italy’s Tebarelli claimed the bronze medal. China’s Liu Mengting finished seventh with a score of 166.00.
The big air final was delayed by over an hour due to a snowstorm, with ten athletes competing. Gu scored 90.00 on her first jump, 61.25 on her second and 89.00 on her third, with the highest two scores counting towards the final total.
Gu, who won two gold and one silver at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, is looking to continue her success in Milan. She previously earned a silver medal in the slopestyle event earlier in the games.
Prior to the final, Gu expressed frustration with the International Ski Federation’s (ISF) training schedule, stating that competing in three events has limited her practice time. According to Tvbs News, Gu felt that qualifying for one event shouldn’t negatively impact her preparation for others. The ISF responded by stating that the Olympic schedule is complex and that they had provided ample training opportunities.
Despite the challenges, Gu remains focused and determined. She acknowledged facing adversity in recent years, including threats, malicious attacks, and online hate, but emphasized that she has grown stronger. NOWnews reports that Gu celebrated the Lunar New Year while competing, wishing everyone a happy and prosperous Year of the Dragon.
With this silver medal, Gu has now accumulated five Olympic medals throughout her career, setting a new record for freestyle skiing. The medal haul underscores her dominance in the sport and solidifies her status as a global athlete. Stheadline notes that Gu brought her halfpipe skis to the venue prepared for any outcome, demonstrating her dedication and preparedness.
The financial rewards for Olympic success are also significant, with prize money varying greatly between countries. MSN reports that prize money varies significantly, with some nations offering substantial rewards, including houses and cars, while others, like Norway, offer no monetary prizes.
Gu’s earnings extend beyond prize money, with Forbes estimating her net worth to exceed 20 million yuan. She successfully balances her athletic career with academic pursuits and commercial endorsements.
