Convicted Rapist Faces Backlash at Olympics

Steven van de Velde, a Dutch beach volleyball player and convicted rapist, has faced severe backlash from crowds at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Van de Velde, who was sentenced in 2016 for raping a 12-year-old girl, has been booed and jeered by spectators during matches, particularly when he served. Despite the criticism and calls from advocates and lawmakers for him to be banned from the Olympics, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stated it could not prevent Netherlands from sending him as he qualified legitimately. His teammate, Matthew Immers, expressed disappointment over the crowd's reaction but emphasized their commitment to perform well together. The Dutch Olympic Committee has taken measures to limit Van de Velde's public exposure, including not allowing him to stay in the Olympic Village or speak to the media. The situation has sparked discussions on athlete accountability and the implications of allowing convicted criminals to compete in high-profile events.