Rippon had previously criticized Pence for his rightwing views, and according to a story in USA Today, declined the offer of a meeting to smooth things over before the games.

In a move straight out of his boss’ playbook, Pence took to twitter to claim the reports of a rift with Rippon were “#FAKENEWS”. But Gus and Adam’s gleeful grins as they give him the virtual finger would suggest there’s more to the story than the Vice President is letting on.

Gus Kenworthy is one of the US’ brightest medal hopes in slopestyle skiing, having won a silver in Sochi four years ago. He came out publicly after the last games, and has been a firm advocate of gay rights in action sports ever since.

Follow all the latest new from the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang here.

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