Paraguayan Swimmer Denies Expulsion Claims at 2024 Paris Olympics

Paraguayan Olympic swimmer Luana Alonso has publicly refuted claims by the Paraguayan Olympic Committee that she was expelled from the Paris 2024 Olympic Village for creating an 'inappropriate atmosphere,' insisting she left voluntarily after feeling disrespected by officials. The controversy arose after Alonso failed to qualify for the semifinals in the 100m butterfly and was observed wearing non-official attire and socializing with athletes from other delegations, actions the committee cited as disruptive. Alonso claims her decision not to continue swimming was the real reason behind the committee's attempt to remove her, and she criticized officials for spreading false rumors that damaged her reputation. She further stated that her accreditation was threatened without valid grounds and that she was later asked to return for future competitions, highlighting a lack of basic respect from team leadership. Alonso, who has since considered legal action against media outlets spreading these claims, emphasizes her commitment to her country and denies any wrongdoing. The situation has sparked broader discussions about athlete autonomy, team protocol, and the treatment of athletes by national sporting bodies.