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Raven Saunders is known for her unique style and strong advocacy in mental health, aiming for future Olympic success.
Who was that masked figure on the Olympic field?
It was none other than Raven Saunders, the theatrical American shot put standout who brings a unique flair to every competition.
Saunders, who uses they/them pronouns, is not only known for their incredible athletic skills but also for their vibrant and unmistakable presence.
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Pulse Sports looks at five key things to know about this remarkable athlete.
1. Saunders' distinctive style and alter ego
Saunders stands out not just for their performance, but also for their dramatic appearance during competitions.
They competed in the Olympic final wearing a full-faced black mask paired with gold-hued sunglasses.
Their hair was an eye-catching mix of neon green and purple, complemented by gold grills and dazzlingly decorated fingernails featuring the letters 'HULK'.
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Saunders transforms into their alter ego "The Hulk" during competitions, a persona that they believe helps boost their performance.
"I'm in full form," Saunders explained. "I had to remind the people, I am who I am."
2. An advocate for mental health and equality
Beyond the field, Saunders is a vocal advocate for mental health and equality.
Their actions at the Tokyo medals ceremony, where they formed an "X" with their wrists, were symbolic of the intersection where all oppressed people meet.
Saunders' commitment to these causes is deep, driven by personal experiences and a desire to influence change.
"It is one way to make me stand out and encourage other women," Saunders stated, highlighting their aim to inspire and uplift others facing challenges.
3. Resilience through personal struggles
Saunders has faced significant personal and professional hurdles.
Following a suspension due to "whereabouts failures" and the unexpected death of their mother just after the Tokyo Games, Saunders considered retiring from the sport.
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Despite these challenges, they have spoken openly about the power of resilience.
"No matter how dark it gets... there will be light," Saunders remarked, detailing their journey back to strength and competition.
4. A history of athletic excellence
Saunders' career is marked by significant achievements.
Before their spotlight at the Olympics, they won NCAA shot put titles at both Southern Illinois and Ole Miss in 2015 and 2016.
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These early successes paved the way for their later achievements on the world stage, establishing them as a formidable competitor in international athletics.
5. Looking ahead to Los Angeles 2028
Despite considering retirement, Saunders is determined to continue their career, with their sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
"This is not the end of my career," they affirmed. As Saunders looks forward, their plan is clear — to remain a formidable force in shot putting while continuing to champion the causes close to their heart.
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