Olympic Games in Paris Bring New Era of Athlete Wellbeing
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As the 2024 Paris Olympics unfold, veteran reporter Deirdre Fitzpatrick notices a significant shift in the atmosphere surrounding the Games. Unlike previous years marked by concerns over COVID-19 or privacy issues, Paris exudes genuine excitement and pride in hosting the world’s premier sporting event.
The French capital has put on a spectacular show, kicking off with a breathtaking Opening Ceremony along the Seine River. Team USA has already secured an impressive 75 medals, with more expected in the coming days.
However, the most striking change observed by Fitzpatrick is the increased focus on athletes’ mental health. She credits gymnastics superstar Simone Biles for bringing this crucial topic to the forefront. Following Biles’ decision to prioritize her mental well-being during the 2021 Tokyo Games, there’s been a noticeable shift in how athletes approach their mental health.
The Olympic Village now offers round-the-clock mental health support, and many athletes openly discuss attending therapy sessions during the Games. This openness marks a significant departure from the past when such topics were rarely mentioned.
Another positive development is the improved support for athlete parents. Track star Allyson Felix spearheaded the creation of the first Olympic nursery, accommodating the needs of competing mothers and fathers.
The rise of social media has also transformed the Games, offering athletes new sponsorship opportunities and connecting them with fans in unprecedented ways.
Despite her busy schedule covering the Olympics for multiple TV stations, Fitzpatrick manages to squeeze in occasional runs to clear her head and savor the Parisian culinary delights.
She emphasizes the importance of these Olympics in rekindling the spirit of the Games after the challenges posed by the pandemic. Paris, she believes, provides the perfect backdrop for reimagining and retelling the Olympic story.
As the Games continue, it’s clear that while athletic achievement remains at the heart of the Olympics, the well-being of the athletes themselves is now taking center stage.
Sushmita Chowdhary, Staff Reporter.
