US Olympian Hunter Hess says he is motivated by being called a ‘loser’ by former President Donald Trump after his comments on representing America.

US freestyle skier Hunter Hess said he found extra motivation after former President Donald Trump labelled him a “real loser” for expressing mixed feelings about representing America.

Hess had told a press conference at the Milan-Cortina Games that wearing the US flag did not mean he represented everything happening in the country, citing political tensions.

Trump blasted the athlete on his Truth Social platform, calling him a “Loser” for the remarks.

Hess, who qualified fifth for the men’s freeski halfpipe final, made an “L” sign on his forehead after his first qualifying run.

“Apparently I’m a loser,” the 27-year-old said when asked about the gesture.

He stated he was embracing the label and that the controversy had boosted his drive.

“I worked so hard to be here. I sacrificed my entire life to make this moment happen,” Hess said after his second qualifying run.

“I’m not going to let controversy like that get in my way. I love the United States of America. I cannot say that enough.”

He admitted the media storm had been a challenging distraction over the past week.

“Luckily my family was there to support me to get through it,” Hess said.

“There was a lot of noise and I’ve never been subject to that type of criticism. But with my family’s help I was able to get through it.”

The skier emphasised that he stood by his love for his country despite his earlier nuanced comments.

“I love the United States of America. I cannot reiterate that enough,” he said.

“My entire family, they all live there. It means the absolute world to me to be able to represent Team USA here.”

 The Sun Malaysia