Controversy surrounds White outside of gold

By The Associated Press

American Shaun White’s victory news conference in Pyeongchang wasn’t all goldenand good news.

Hours after winning the men’s halfpipe at these 2018 Winter Olympics, White talked about the emotions of reboundingfrom a slump and a bad crash to capture the third gold of his career. He talked about his third run of theday, when he landed backto-back 1440s for the first time inhis life.

“I just dug deep and made ithappen,” he said.

But there were also questions about a sexual harassment suit filed by Lena Zawaideh, a former drummer in his band. The claim, which dates to 2016, has come backinto the news this week.

“Honestly I’m here to talk about the Olympics, not gossip,”White said.

“I am who I am and I’m proud of who I am,” he continued. “And my friends, you know, love me and vouch for me and I think that stands on itsown.”

When a reporter tried to follow up, U.S. Ski & Snowboard official Nick Alexakos interrupted, saying: “I think we’re here to talk about the gold medal. If you don’t have another question why don’t you go ahead and pass the mike.”

In an appearance later on NBC’s “Today” show, White apologized for using the word “gossip” in reference to the lawsuit, saying he used “a poor choice of words to describe such a sensitive subject”and he’s “truly sorry.”

Luger still recovering

AmericanEmily Sweeney is recovering from a frightening crash that knocked her out of the final run of the women’s luge competition. Sweeney was still experiencing back pain after crash, and she was being monitored by USA Luge’s medical staff. USA Luge says Sweeney is doing well and her parents are visiting with her in the Athletes’ Village. Sweeney doesn’t have any other events scheduled atthe Olympics.

U.S. skier out

U.S. Alpine skier Tommy Biesemeyer injured his right ankle in training and wasn’t able to compete in the downhill. Teammate Ryan Cochran-Siegle took Biesemeyer’s place in the downhill.