On June 19, 2026, at the Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships, DotDotNews reporter interviewed Eileen Gu for an on-site conversation.
Asked about her previous remark that 2025 had been the hardest year of her life—marked by injuries and intense online scrutiny—Gu admitted it was a deeply traumatic period.
"2025 was not easy, for sure. To be honest with you, I blocked out most of it because it was so traumatic," she said. "But I think there's no choice but to keep going. If you believe in your mission and believe there is meaning and a reason to continue, I trust that you will find a way through."
Reflecting on what adversity can teach, Gu said difficult experiences often lead to greater self-understanding.
"Tough times force you to get to know the intricacies and nuances of yourself, which provides a lot of value later on, especially as a young person," she said.
According to Gu, that self-awareness can eventually become a source of confidence and strength in the areas that matter most.
(Reporter: Lynn Zhou; Cameraman: Jack Wang; Video Editor: Zoey Sun)
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