Swimmers Fall Ill After Paris Olympics Open Water Races

Three German swimmers experienced illness after participating in the open water races at the Paris Olympics, raising concerns about the water quality of the Seine River.

One of the swimmers, Leonie Beck, took to social media to share her condition, stating that she vomited nine times and experienced diarrhea after the race. She sarcastically commented on the water quality in the Seine River.

The German Olympic Sports Confederation confirmed that three athletes fell ill, with two female swimmers being treated as outpatients for symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The swimmers were competing in the 10-kilometer event, and despite the sickness, organizers reported that the water quality was within accepted limits. The decision to hold open water events in the Seine River had previously raised concerns due to its history of pollution.

Despite the cleanup efforts, some athletes still fell ill after the races. While some swimmers dismissed concerns about water quality, others like Leonie Beck attributed their illness to swimming in the Seine. The debate on whether the river was responsible for the swimmers' sickness continues.

What do you think?

• Do you believe the Seine River was responsible for the swimmers' illness?
• Should open water events be held in rivers with a history of pollution?
• How can organizers ensure the safety of athletes in future aquatic events?