In a new interview, Alysa Liu is defending fellow Olympian Eileen Gu against criticism over her decision to represent China in international competition.

Liu said she finds the backlash hypocritical, pointing out that Gu — who was born and raised in the U.S. but has a Chinese mother — has been criticized from multiple directions.

“I think people are hypocritical for shaming her for representing China,” Liu said. “Her mom is an immigrant. Y’all would have told her to go back to China. Now that they’re back in China, you’re mad.”

Gu sparked global debate when she chose to compete for China instead of the United States at the Olympics, a move that made her hugely popular in China while drawing criticism from some Americans.

Every single game is toxic, cutthroat, and miserable. "Friendly competition" is an oxymoron

Inspiring news from Kenya

Peter Tabichi, a dedicated science teacher from a small rural village in Kenya, was honored as the world’s best teacher and awarded a $1 million prize. Despite working in a school with limited resources, he has shown extraordinary commitment to his students and their future. Tabichi donates a large portion of his own salary to support children from poor families, helping them afford basic needs like food, uniforms, and school supplies.

Through his passion for teaching, he has helped transform his under-resourced school into a place filled with hope, curiosity, and opportunity. His students have gone on to achieve impressive results in national and international science competitions, proving that determination and guidance can overcome difficult circumstances.

Chosen from over 10,000 nominations across 179 countries, Peter Tabichi’s kindness, dedication, and belief in education have inspired the world. His story is a powerful reminder that one passionate teacher can truly change countless lives.

Heisenberg's got competition

Hegseth does provide tough competition for the title!