U.S. figure skater Amber Glenn is igniting a firestorm of discussion off the ice at the Winter Olympics, showcasing her unapologetic spirit in a bold social media move. In a TikTok post shared on Tuesday, the team event gold medalist proudly displayed her newly won hardware alongside teammate Alysa Liu, while delivering a sharp rebuke to her detractors.
A Defiant Message on Social Media
In the viral TikTok video, Glenn wrote a caption that has since sparked widespread attention. "They hate to see two woke bitches winning," she declared. "If 'Woke' means people who use their platforms to advocate for marginalized communities in the country that they are actively representing …… Then yeah sure?" This statement serves as a direct response to critics who have targeted her for speaking out on political issues during the Milan Cortina Games.
Facing Backlash for Political Stance
Glenn, who identifies as pansexual, has faced significant backlash for her vocal opposition to the Trump administration's policies. She revealed that she had considered stepping back from social media after receiving threats from commenters angered by her political advocacy. "I am disappointed by it," she expressed in a now-expired Instagram story, highlighting the personal toll of the criticism.
In earlier remarks, Glenn emphasized the broader impact of politics on athletes and communities. "It's been a hard time for the [LGBTQ+] community overall in this administration," she stated. "I know that a lot of people say you're just an athlete, like, stick to your job, shut up about politics, but politics affect us all." Her comments underscore a growing trend of Olympians using their platforms to address social and political issues.
Broader Context of Athlete Activism
Glenn is not alone in facing political scrutiny at the Winter Olympics. Freestyle skier Hunter Hess also encountered controversy after expressing "mixed feelings" about representing the U.S., which led to President Donald Trump labeling him a "real loser." Other athletes have similarly stood up against Trump's policies, including the migrant crackdown and government actions against protesters, reflecting a wider movement of activism within the sports world.
Vice President JD Vance weighed in on the debate, directing comments at Olympians on Wednesday. "You're not there to pop off about politics," he asserted, highlighting the ongoing tension between athletic performance and political expression. This statement adds to the polarized discourse surrounding the role of athletes in public advocacy.
Glenn's Olympic Performance Amid Controversy
Despite the off-ice drama, Amber Glenn has demonstrated exceptional skill on the ice, contributing to the U.S. team's gold medal victory in the team event. Her performance, captured in images from the competition, showcases her dedication and talent as a figure skater, even as she navigates the complexities of public scrutiny.
This incident raises important questions about the intersection of sports, politics, and personal identity in the modern Olympic landscape. As athletes like Glenn continue to speak out, their actions challenge traditional boundaries and inspire conversations about advocacy and representation on a global stage.
