Snowboarder calls for cohesion in the USA

"I am proud and honored to have the opportunity to represent the United States on the biggest stage," said the 44-year-old veteran, who is taking part in the Winter Games for the fifth time and won gold in the team in 2022.

"Sport gives us a unique opportunity and a platform to bring people together. People from different backgrounds, with different perspectives and different opinions," said Baumgartner during his two-minute statement at a press conference.

During the Olympic Games in Italy, there have already been several protests against the policies of US President Donald Trump - particularly with regard to the ICE immigration raids on migrants. Several US athletes have also expressed criticism of the political situation in their home country.

Ski freestyler Hunter Hess explained that he had "mixed feelings" about representing the USA at the moment. "Just because I'm carrying the flag doesn't mean I represent everything that's happening in the USA right now," said the 27-year-old. After Trump called him a "loser", Hess made it clear via Instagram that he loves his country.

Notes on his cell phone for speech

In the middle of his monologue, Baumgartner hesitated for a moment and pulled out his cell phone. He had taken notes and didn't want to forget anything, he explained.

"I've been given the opportunity to travel the world and pursue my dream, haven't I?" asked Baumgartner, adding: "And with this freedom comes responsibility. A responsibility that I take very seriously. I would like to add that the best part of each of my trips is returning to what I think is the greatest country in the world - the United States of America." With an increasingly brittle voice, he concluded his statement by saying that he would do everything he could "to make everyone at home proud."