Swimming Australia Fires Coach Michael Palfrey

Michael Palfrey, an Australian swimming coach, was sacked by Swimming Australia after expressing support for South Korean swimmer Kim Woo-min during the Paris 2024 Olympics. Palfrey publicly stated his hope that Kim would win the 400m freestyle, which included Australian competitors Elijah Winnington and Sam Short, leading to significant backlash and accusations of 'un-Australian' behavior from Australian officials. Despite initially remaining at the Games, Swimming Australia later confirmed Palfrey's termination for breaching his employment agreement and damaging both his and the organization's reputation. The coach had been previously advised to sever ties with non-Australian athletes four months prior to the Olympics. Following the incident, Palfrey retains his coaching accreditation; however, he has lost his position with USC Spartans and his salary from Swimming Australia. The incident highlights the challenges of dual associations for coaches representing national teams.