Veronika Stepanova, the Olympic cross-country champion, criticized the involvement of Russian athletes in the 2024 Summer Games, calling out trampoline artist Angela Bladtseva and questioning why she travelled to Paris. Her remarks were shared by Match TV.
Bladtseva said she entered the Games with a neutral standing but described the experience as something that has left a lasting impact. The question remains: what motivated her to participate? She referenced a meeting with the head of the IOC, Thomas Bach, suggesting a close connection that some observers might infer. If the reader understands the sentiment being hinted at, this may shed light on the perception surrounding the decision.
The 19-year-old athlete finished fifth in the 2024 Olympic event. The competition was won by the British contender Bryony Page with a score of 56.480. The silver medal went to Violetta Bordilovskaya from Belarus with 56.060, and the bronze was claimed by Sofyan Meto of Canada with 55.650.
Stepanova previously became the youngest Russian Olympic champion in cross-country skiing history by taking gold in the women’s relay at the 2022 Winter Olympics. She also secured a relay win during another World Cup stage in 2021.
Earlier Stepanova addressed public criticism following her pregnancy announcement, appealing for understanding from detractors rather than further backlash.