President Donald Trump may not be physically present at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Milan's iconic San Siro Stadium, yet his influence is palpably felt as the games commence this Friday. The president’s confrontational stance on international relations and tariffs has stirred a significant shift in the global order, turning athletic competition into a field for geopolitical assertion.

Trump’s contentious policies and his efforts to rearrange alliances have transformed what was once a friendly rivalry into a fierce contest of national pride and moral standing. According to Charlie Angus, a vocal critic and former Canadian MP, competitions against the U.S. now carry a weight beyond sportsmanship, becoming a matter of "life and death."

The Trump administration’s ambitious agenda for the Olympics aims to bolster America's image as a leader in international sports, heralding a "Decade of Sport in America." However, sending Vice President JD Vance, known for his critical views on European leadership, and the controversial presence of ICE agents for security, have only fueled animosities.

Trump’s antagonism doesn’t end with Europe. His interactions have agitated countries from Norway, a top medalist in the previous Winter Olympics, to Canada and France. Moreover, his ambiguous stance towards Russia adds another layer of complexity, as Russian athletes compete under a neutral flag due to doping sanctions.

Political tensions have historically spilled over into the Olympics, affecting participation and international relations. The current climate under Trump's administration is no exception. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly insists that Trump’s "America First" policy is yielding benefits, urging other nations to emulate the U.S. stance on various global issues.

On the sports front, hockey has become a hotspot for political frictions, especially highlighted in last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off where Canadian fans expressed their displeasure towards American policies audibly. The dynamics promise to remain charged as teams from the U.S. and possibly Canada could meet again in the medal rounds.

Despite the political undercurrents, athletes like Canadian speedskater William Dandjinou and French biathlete Quentin Fillon Maillet are focusing on their performances, hoping to rise above the fray.

Dominik Hasek, a legendary Czech goalie and outspoken critic of geopolitical maneuvers, summarized the sentiment by questioning the stability and implications of Trump’s unpredictable policies on the international stage.

As the games proceed, over 90 nations are competing, each trying to not let geopolitical tensions overshadow their efforts and the spirit of the games. The global community watches closely, as sports once again serve as a stage for much larger world narratives.

Contributions to this report were made by Nahal Toosi.