2022 – Gu wins gold in big air and halfpipe and silver in slopestyle at the Beijing Winter Olympics, becoming the first American‑born athlete to capture freestyle skiing gold for China and establishing herself as the most decorated female Olympic freestyle skier [2].

2025 – While studying quantum physics at Stanford, Gu tops athlete earnings with more than $23 million from modeling and sponsorship deals, highlighting her dual career as a scholar‑athlete [1].

2025 – Chinese authorities pay Gu and fellow American‑born skier Zhu Yi a combined $6.6 million to secure their participation on the Chinese team for the upcoming 2026 Games [2].

Early 2026 – Gu publicly announces she will represent China rather than the United States at the Milano‑Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, reigniting the controversy that followed her 2022 debut [2].

Feb 9, 2026 – At a press conference Gu discloses death threats, a street assault on Stanford’s campus and a robbery of her dorm, saying the abuse “makes her stronger” and fuels her desire to protect others [1][2].

Feb 2026 – Conservative politicians—including Florida Sen. Rick Scott and Tenn. Rep. Andy Ogles—and former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom label Gu a “traitor” following her statements [1][2].

Feb 2026 – Vice President JD Vance comments on the controversy, stating he has “no idea” what Gu’s status should be [1].

Feb 2026 – Competing for China at the Milano‑Cortina Games, Gu captures silver medals in big air and slopestyle, tying the record for most Olympic medals by a freeskier and cementing her status as the most decorated female Olympic freestyle skier [1][2].

Feb 2026 (post‑Games) – Chinese state media CCTV hails Gu as the “pride of China,” and major brands Red Bull, Porsche, IWC and IMG Models promote her as a national icon, underscoring Beijing’s celebration of her achievements [1].