If gold medals were awarded for unconventional Olympic attire, Raven Saunders would be a guaranteed top contender. The U.S. shot-putter, renowned for her distinctive fashion choices, returned to the Olympic arena on Thursday, making a strong impression by qualifying for Friday’s women’s final with a throw of 18.62 meters. Saunders, who identifies with they/them pronouns, previously won silver in Tokyo, and her return featured a striking ensemble, including a black ski mask, dark sunglasses, and a revived purple and green hairstyle reminiscent of her Tokyo look.
Saunders' unique style serves a dual purpose; beyond making a personal statement, it aims to elevate the visibility of the shot put event. The 28-year-old athlete's gold teeth were a symbolic gesture to signify her ambition to upgrade her Tokyo silver to gold. Having faced a suspension from last year's World Championships due to administrative issues, Saunders is determined to use her presence to spotlight shot put and inspire younger athletes to embrace their own individuality.
The shot-putter has expressed a desire for more media coverage of field events, suggesting that a Netflix series dedicated to throwing and field disciplines could help highlight their significance in track and field. Saunders believes that track and field should encompass more than just running events and that field events deserve equal attention and recognition.
Despite contemplating quitting the sport during a tumultuous period that included her mother's death and an 18-month suspension, Saunders now feels she is in a positive mental state. Reflecting on her journey, she embraces her role with a sense of empowerment, remarking, "Oh, yeah, absolutely," when asked if she feels like a superhero. For Saunders, this mindset is a testament to her resilience and commitment to making an impact both on and off the field.
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