Steven van de Velde Competes at Paris Olympics

Dutch beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde, who served 13 months in prison for raping a 12-year-old girl in 2016, faced significant backlash for competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite considering quitting due to the public outcry and jeers during matches, he chose to participate, stating he wouldn't let others dictate his actions. Van de Velde and his partner Matthew Immers reached the quarterfinals but struggled under the pressure, finishing with a 1-2 record in pool play before losing to Brazil. He acknowledged that the crowd's reactions may have affected their performance, admitting he was distracted by external factors rather than focusing on the game. Advocates have criticized the International Olympic Committee for allowing his participation, arguing it sends a harmful message regarding accountability for sexual violence. Van de Velde expressed regret for his past actions, recognizing their lasting consequences and the hurt they caused to those around him.