Swimmer Kolesnikov – on the discussion of participation in the Olympic Games: “Everyone makes their own choice, we need to be more friendly”

World swimming record holder Kliment Kolesnikov In an interview with , he said he would like a calmer and more respectful attitude towards the choice of athletes regarding participation in the Olympic Games in neutral status.

Kolesnikov refused to participate in the 2024 Games in Paris, saying he considered the current admission requirements unacceptable.

— In connection with all the stories about participation or non-participation in the Olympic Games, serious passions have flared up – regardless of whether you decided to skip the Games or to perform. How do you feel about this?

“It’s impossible to ignore it, simply because it’s everywhere, even in groups unrelated to sports and social networks. It makes me a little sad to think that people can’t have a simple approach to this subject. You have an opinion and that’s fine, but imposing it on someone, even aggressively, is a mistake.

I decided not to go to the Olympics, I do not regret it, and at the same time I have never imposed my opinion on anyone. From a sporting point of view, I understand the guys who want to try their luck and go to the Olympics. From a human point of view, even if I do not share this position, I will not condemn anyone. But the fact that people are stirring up conflict is incomprehensible to me. Everyone makes their own choice, but why create this farce… We need to be more friendly,” Kolesnikov said in an interview with .

The Paris Olympic Games will be held from July 26 to August 11.

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