Fresh off a historic performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics, freestyle skiing star Eileen Gu has captured the internet’s attention once again, this time away from the slopes. The 22-year-old athlete shared a series of swimsuit photos from a post-Games getaway, labelled "defrosting," which have quickly gone viral across social media platforms. The transition to summer-style relaxation comes after a winter season defined by both unprecedented athletic achievement and intense political scrutiny. Eileen Gu, 22, Becomes 'Most Decorated Female Freestyler' with Big Air Silver at 2026 Winter Olympics.

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Eileen Gu’s Viral Bikini Photos Go Viral

Over the weekend, Gu posted a collection of images showcasing her downtime following the conclusion of the Milano-Cortina Games. In the viral series, the skier is seen in various settings, including standing in the water wearing a blue full-sleeved swimsuit and lounging poolside in a white bikini alongside a friend. Other photos included in the "defrosting" carousel featured Gu taking a bicycle out for a stroll and a more abstract shot of her relaxing with a fire burning in a pit positioned near her chest. The post has garnered millions of views, reflecting her dual status as a global sports icon and a high-profile fashion model.

Eileen Gu Stuns in Bikini Looks

The latest swimsuit photos of Olympian Eileen Gu are making waves on the internet. In addition to her personal social media posts, Gu recently made her debut in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, further bridging her career between elite athletics and high fashion. Fans have been quick to praise the "defrosting" theme, as Gu traded her custom-designed ski suits for at least two different bikini looks. A second picture from her weekend post showed her lying down near a pool with a bikini-clad friend; in that picture, she was sporting a white bikini. She also gave fans a second snap of herself in her blue swimsuit as she walked outside. Eileen Gu Cries As She Reveals Her Grandmother Passed Away After Winning Gold at 2026 Winter Olympics.

Eileen Gu Makes Olympic History

The viral photos serve as a coda to a dominant run in Italy, where Gu cemented her legacy as the most decorated freestyle skier in Olympic history. By defending her titles and securing multiple medals, Gu brought her career total to six Olympic medals. "I’m the most decorated freeskier of all time, male or female," Gu told reporters following her final event in February. "Winning a medal at the Olympics is a life-changing experience for every athlete."

Eileen Gu Sparks Nationality Debate

Despite her record-breaking success, Gu’s decision to represent China, the birthplace of her mother, while being born and raised in San Francisco remained a point of contention. During the Games, Vice President JD Vance expressed his wish that U.S.-born athletes would compete for the United States. He stated, "I certainly think that somebody who grew up in the United States of America, who benefited from our education system, from the freedoms and liberties that make this country a great place, I would hope that they want to compete with (for) the United States of America". Eileen Gu Shuts Down Reporter for ‘Ridiculous’ Question After Historic Freestyle Skiing Medal Haul at Winter Olympics 2026 (Watch Video)

Eileen Gu Speaks on Criticism

Gu, who attends Stanford University, has remained steadfast in her choice. She has been vocal about the personal toll of the political scrutiny, revealing she has faced death threats and harassment. Addressing the backlash, Gu noted, "People only have a problem with me doing it because they kind of lump China into this monolithic entity... And also, because I win. Like if I wasn't doing well, I think that they probably wouldn't care as much, and that's OK for me."

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 07, 2026 11:27 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).