American Lawyer Makes Olympic History Amid Political Controversy
An American personal injury lawyer who publicly condemned United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement policies has created Winter Olympics history. Rich Ruohonen from Minnesota became Team USA's oldest Winter Olympian at age fifty-four when he stepped onto the ice during Thursday's men's curling competition.
Historic Olympic Debut
Ruohonen entered as an alternate during the USA's eight-to-three defeat against Switzerland, replacing skip Danny Casper once victory became mathematically impossible. With the Americans trailing eight-to-two, Ruohonen delivered his inaugural Olympic shot—a corner guard that safely reached the left flank of the house.
"Yeah, baby! Good shot, Rich!" shouted Casper, who at twenty-three is three decades younger than his teammate. The American supporters inside Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium responded with a standing ovation, recognizing Ruohonen's historic achievement for Team USA.
Political Statements and Team Dynamics
Earlier in the week, Ruohonen delivered a blistering critique of former President Donald Trump's ICE policies during a press conference. "What's happening in Minnesota is wrong," declared the six-time "Minnesota Attorney of the Year" winner. "There's no shades of grey. It's clear."
Despite the political controversy, Ruohonen has become something of an honorary uncle to his predominantly Generation Z teammates. Since joining as Casper's alternate—Casper has Guillain-Barre syndrome—Ruohonen has driven teammates around, awakened them for morning training sessions, and purchased snacks, all while maintaining his full-time legal practice.
Balancing Law and Sport
The commitment required is substantial. "I get up three days a week at five in the morning, leave my house by 5:15, go drive thirty miles to work out and train," Ruohonen told the Associated Press. After training, he heads to his law office for a full day's work before returning for evening practice at six o'clock.
From Thursday through Sunday, Ruohonen travels to curling tournaments while carrying a collared shirt and tie to conduct Zoom hearings remotely. He balances this demanding schedule with family life—he and his wife Sherri have two children, Nicholas (21) and Hannah (24), both of whom he has taught to curl.
Political Backlash and Olympic Protocol
Ruohonen isn't alone in making political statements during the Games. Skiers Chris Lillis and Hunter Hess, along with ice skater Amber Glenn, have also spoken out about domestic tensions. However, Vice President JD Vance, leading the American delegation in Milan, fired back at these athletes.
"My advice to them would be to try to bring the country together," stated Vance, who was booed during the opening ceremony. "You're there to play a sport, and you're there to represent your country... You're not there to pop off about politics."
The Vice President emphasized that Olympic athletes should expect pushback when entering political discussions, suggesting they focus on athletic excellence rather than political commentary while representing the United States internationally.
Despite these tensions, Ruohonen's historic Olympic appearance—combining athletic achievement, professional dedication, and political conviction—has created a memorable moment at the Winter Games that transcends typical sports narratives.
