“Personally I think I will make a decision [about a protest of some kind] probably on the day.
“Racing someone that was one of those athletes and finding out he was one of those athletes was disappointing.
“I think it’s less about what country they came from and more about the system and how the system ultimately feels like it’s failed. And that’s the truth.”
As we reported earlier this year, the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Rule 50, which governs athlete expression, maintains for Paris that athletes are still not allowed to make signs of protest or expression during official ceremonies like medal ceremonies.
ZSC acknowledged this fact, stating, “Everyone probably is aware of rule 50 here and the repercussions that happen with that.”
It was at the 2019 World Championships where now-retired Aussie medalist Mack Horton protested gold medalist Sun Yang‘s (CHN) presence by abstaining from podium celebrations, standing behind the platform on the floor during the Chinese national anthem.
Horton and the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) received warning letters from World Aquatics (then FINA) for the demonstration.
Another Olympic champion breaststroker, Adam Peaty of Great Britain, has also commented on the current state of Chinese doping case affairs. He said this week, “If it’s not fair then it takes the enjoyment out for me.
“I think if other countries aren’t living up to that standard [high standard that British athletes are], then it’s a real shame that brings a real dark cloud over what the Olympics is meant to stand for.” (Reuters)
ZSC, don’t put the cart before the horse, got to make a few pieces drop into place before you can even think about what happens after the race. Just focus on doing your bit to get on the podium and worry about whether Qin Haiyang does his bit to meet you up there.
Can’t wait to see the new Australian clown show.
It doesn’t matter because you will be looking up to him when you finish second
He’s quite the introvert so am surprised to hear that he’s considering it. Hopefully he’ll make a good choice.
not like he has to socialize up there with people during the protest
💀
He’s not wrong, but agree with other comments here that this sounds like he doesn’t think he can win. Hope he can focus on swimming first and try his best to put this out of his mind, although I understand that wouldn’t be easy to do!
Do it! The esteemed authorities (World Aquatics and WADA) don’t do anything to stop the Chinese cheating. Here is the chance for brave athletes to take charge and say it’s absolutely unacceptable!
A lot of people are cheating, especially at the top… Look at Phelps’ comment, look at the USA/Russian/China/France.. the list is endless. Full of national squad people from the last few quad’s… Lochte/Dressel/Hardy/Brinegar/McMahon. Just google “swimmer suspended for failed drug test”. Look at the top 20 finishers from Tour de France in the last 20 years, lol
As the great Charles Barkley once said, “If you ain’t cheatin, you ain’t tryin.” just don’t get caught… 😉
Anyone who thinks his the only one is delusional. No doubt Peaty will do the same if Qin wins the 100
Qin will not win. British Lion all the way.