MILAN, ITALY - The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan are underway, marked by both athletic achievements and social commentary. While U.S. athletes compete for gold, including speedskater Connor McDermott-Mostowy who is making his Olympic debut, the games are also highlighting issues of LGBTQ rights and political tensions back home. The games have also seen the return of veteran skier Lindsey Vonn, who attempted to compete despite a recent injury.
Vonn, 41, came out of retirement to chase a second Olympic gold, according to Sky News. Despite rupturing her ACL in her left knee just nine days before the event, Vonn was determined to compete, stating, "As long as there's a chance, I will try." However, her performance was cut short when she crashed in the downhill skiing event.
Meanwhile, U.S. athletes have been vocal about issues beyond the slopes and ice. At a press conference, U.S. skiers were asked about the turmoil in the United States, including the detention of immigrants by ICE agents and clashes with protesters, according to NPR News. Many athletes voiced concern.
Adding to the social narrative, the games feature a record number of out LGBTQ athletes, with over 40 competing, according to Outsports and NPR News. McDermott-Mostowy is among those making their Olympic debut.
In other news, the documentary "Melania" saw a significant drop in its second weekend at the box office, according to TechCrunch. The film, which Amazon spent $40 million to acquire and $35 million to market, grossed an estimated $2.37 million in its second weekend, a 67% decrease from its opening. The film's total gross is $13.5 million, making it unlikely to break even in theaters.
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