In the latest episode of the Olympics saga, we have yet another case of athletes deciding that the best time to air their grievances about America is right in front of the world stage. Picture this: a figure skater and a couple of freestyle skiers who seem to have traded in balancing on thin blades and skis for balancing their political views on a soapbox. Is it just me, or is there a growing trend of folks who, while donning the American flag, forget they’re supposed to be representing the country, not rebuking it?

Now, it all started with one of our American figure skaters, Amber Glenn, expressing her emotions about some so-called tough times under the current administration. Evidently, it’s a must these days to have a tiny megaphone in hand to talk politics instead of focusing on spins and jumps. Amber wasn’t shy to let everyone know she’s using her platform “to encourage people to stay strong,” which is admirably vague enough that it could mean just about anything. One might wonder if she missed her calling in political strategy class.

But wait, there’s more! Joining Glenn in this national grumbling session were a pair of freestyle skiers who felt compelled to sign up as America’s unpaid critics. These athletes shared how mixed their emotions were wearing the Stars and Stripes at the Olympics. Mixed emotions, they said. It’s a real head-scratcher that people who purportedly take pride in their profession and country have ambivalence upfront, only to keep the flag on their uniforms anyway. What’s next? Asking for a refund on their patriotism?

Obviously, any public dissent on this stage would leave some wishing these athletes would focus less on what’s troubling them about America and more about their triple axels and perfect landings. Everyone has the right to their opinion, sure, but when wearing the team colors, maybe it’s not the best time to make it about “me, me, me” instead of “U-S-A.” Save the political discourse for after the medals are handed out.

Amidst this backdrop of mixed loyalty, the online community isn’t holding back. People are talking about pulling funding from athletes who can’t seem to set aside their personal opinions for the good of the team. Some suggest candidates who’d rather take stances should try getting into Congress instead of monopolizing press conferences overseas. After all, if you’re too busy focusing on everything wrong with your team, how can you possibly bring home the gold?

In the end, representing the country on an international stage should be a point of pride, not a platform to broadcast discontent. Sure, everyone has issues with their home nations; it’s part of the deal. But when you’re out there flying the flag, the red, white, and blue deserve a little common courtesy. Because when the spotlight’s on and it’s game time, the focus should be on the sport—the athlete’s very reason for being at the Olympics in the first place, rather than a series of impromptu debates.