Despite Not Being Sad to Miss Paris Olympics, Swimming World Record Holder Makes a Wild Promise

The International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) release of a statement regarding the criteria for Russia’s participation in the 2024 Olympics is creating contention among the participants. Two-time Olympic swimming medalist recently opened up about the binding conditions, sharing his unwillingness to go forth with the Olympics as per IOC demands by keeping a neutral status.

Russia’s Kliment Kolesnikov has revealed that he is adamant about skipping the Olympics. However, he has raised a wild promise which if fulfilled may prompt him to go forth with his participation. Let’s take a look.

Kolesnikov makes wild promises regarding the status of Olympic participation

Russian swimmer Kliment Kolesnikov, who holds a spectacular world record in the men’s 50m backstroke, has released his statement regarding the decision to skip the 2024 Paris Olympics. It comes instead of the “unacceptable” conditions that the Russian athletes are being subjected to due to the war in Ukraine.

According to IOC 2024 bid conditions, “If you don’t get neutral status, you don’t qualify for the Olympic Games,” the Russian swimmer remarked in the interview. He said that he cannot accept this, while there are a host of athletes who have shown their acceptance. Kolesnikov remarked that he is happy for their decision.

Furthermore, he expressed his concerns about not having the right to a delegation, flag, or hymn. It will make him feel like a “black sheep” among other athletes. However, he also made a wild promise, as he adds, “If the conditions (of the IOC) change” and Russian authorities will consider that “we must go win medals on behalf of the fatherland” then “of course I will go,”. It is unlikely that the IOC will go back on its set conditions for Russia’s participation.

Kolesnikov shares that he is not sad about his decision

The 23-year-old professional swimmer remarked, “The dream of an Olympic gold medal remains, but I’m not sad about not being able to go.” Despite his dreams of winning the much-coveted medal, and understanding the gravity of the situation, he intends to keep out.

Read More:  Despite Deadly War Situation With Ukraine, World Aquatics Hints to Open the ‘Book of Chances’ for Russian Swimming Team at Olympics 2024

Despite that, Kliment also added, “But considering the current situation, I’d run the risk of coming home with the medal only to see it taken away [by the IOC].” Certainly, he doesn’t want that to happen. Sharing his thoughts, the current world record holder does not have any qualms regarding his decision.

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