Balancing Fame, School and a Future: How One Skier Is Redefining Success

Eileen Gu has become a household name in the world of sports, not just because she excels on the slopes but also due to her savvy business moves. In 2023, Forbes reported that she earned $23.1 million, placing her ahead of well‑known athletes like Naomi Osaka and Caitlin Clark. Her wealth comes largely from brand partnerships with companies such as Red Bull, Porsche, and TCL, rather than prize money alone.

Gu’s journey began early. Growing up in San Francisco with a first‑generation Chinese immigrant mother, she hit the mountains at age three. By her teenage years, she was already paying for her private high‑school tuition through endorsements—a milestone she described as a source of pride. Her rise to international fame accelerated after winning one silver and two gold medals at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.

The pressure of competing on a global stage took an emotional toll. Gu has spoken openly about mental‑health struggles that followed the Games, admitting she felt detached from her surroundings and constantly restless. Her hectic schedule—flights for coursework, fashion shows in Barcelona and Italy, and appearances at events ranging from sororities to nobility balls—often left her little time for rest.

Despite these challenges, Gu has shifted her focus from personal accolades to collective impact. She now values using her platform to inspire others, especially young people who might think age is a barrier. “I can talk physics one day and walk a runway the next,” she says, highlighting her belief that diverse talents can coexist at any age.

Financially, Gu’s model differs from many top female athletes. Less than 1 % of her projected earnings for 2025 come from competition prizes, a sharp contrast to players like Coco Gauff or Aryna Sabalenka, whose on‑court winnings make up a larger share. Because she represents Team China rather than the U.S., she is ineligible for the $200,000 bonus given to all American athletes.

With her sights set on upcoming slopestyle, big air, and halfpipe events in Milan, Gu continues to demonstrate that success can be multifaceted. Her story encourages young people to pursue varied interests simultaneously, proving that ambition and balance are not mutually exclusive.