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Dutch Volleyball Player Steven van de Velde Faces Backlash Over Olympic Participation

Convicted of child rape in 2016, van de Velde's inclusion in the Paris Games sparked widespread controversy and personal turmoil.

  • Van de Velde served 13 months in prison for raping a 12-year-old girl when he was 19.
  • He faced boos and jeers during matches, impacting his performance.
  • Despite considering quitting, van de Velde competed and reached the quarter-finals.
  • Criticism included calls for his ban by victim support groups and the public.
  • Van de Velde expressed regret and acknowledged the lasting consequences of his actions.
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