Fred Richards is aiming for a team medal in Paris, but his goal might be deterred by the cardboard beds. Aiming to prevent frequent romantic encounters, the authorities in Paris have designed cardboard beds for the athletes. These same beds were used in Tokyo too, garnering a series of complaints from the athletes. Almost 16000 modular mattresses have been designed for pairing with specially made beds. The Paris authorities have also emphasized reducing the carbon footprint and promoting green living with the use of such beds. 

Unfortunately, these beds might suit the green living concept, but the athletes do not seem to like it. They have coined the experience as uncomfortable, and Fred Richards hinted at the same too. In a recent interview with Trinity Thomas, Richards pointed out the need for more comfortable beds when asked about his Paris goals. While most of his teammates cited ‘Team medal’ as their Olympics goal, Richards said, “Get a comfier bed.”

Richards, who clinched the third position in the 2023 worlds, is touted as the frontrunner to win an Olympic medal in Paris. This would be significant for the USA, as they have been deprived of a medal for a long time. The last time a USA artistic gymnast won an individual Olympic medal was Danell Leyva, back in 2012. Thus, the entire country is heavily banking on him to bring home glory. And although the uncomfortable beds are threatening to thwart Fred Richards’ goals, he has had some exquisite success throughout his career.

Fred Richards: A glimpse at his ornamented career 

Fred Richards started gymnastics when he was just four years old. Over the years he matured and evolved rapidly to gain immense success. While his recent World Championship success has been in the limelight, Richards has had other significant success as well. One of his career highlights will be his consecutive Junior Pan American Championship title in 2021 and 2022. However, a chunk of his success and recognition came in his career as a NCAA gymnast. 

Representing the Michigan Wolverines, Fred Richards won almost everything in the last two years. He clinched the silver medal in floor exercise and team last year. But competing in the horizontal and parallel bars, Fred Richards displayed exceptional skill and control to clinch a double gold. His all-around performance in 2023 ensured that Fred Richards would end his season as a triple gold medalist. Although he ended up with 3 silver medals this year, Fred Richards’ form is quite impressive going into Paris. Thus, with high hopes from the 20-year-old, the nation will be eagerly anticipating a replication of his NCAA performance. However, the cardboard beds might well play a spoilsport. Whether that will happen or not is a question that can only be answered in the future.