Four United States Paralympians have been banned from attending the closing ceremonies of the Paralympics in Paris after making comments on social media questioning the disability of a fellow swimmer.
United States Paralympians Gia Pergolini, Julia Ganney, Jessica Long, and Anastasia Pagonis have been disciplined for comments they made about fellow swimmer Christie Raleigh Crossley, who has the neurological disorder S9. Their comments violated the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) rules.
The swimmers' comments came after Raleigh Crossley set a world record in the 50-meter freestyle event in Paris on Aug. 29. Long, who has spoken out about cheating in the Paralympics, commented on an Instagram post where her teammates were celebrating Raleigh Crossley's achievement.
US Paralympians Banned from Closing Ceremonies for Questioning Teammate's Disability
"I stand with you," Long commented after Spanish swimmer Sarai Gascon Moreno said, "S9? It’s a joke?"
Long continued to speak out, accusing the U.S. Paralympic committee of being too lenient. "I’ve seen the Paralympic movement for so long. I think we have intentional misrepresentation [rules] for a reason," she said. "And I think we are not using it. I think we really should, right? I want to see Paralympics with integrity. I want to see it better."
US Paralympians Banned from Closing Ceremonies for Questioning Teammate's Disability
Gaffney's comment was in a separate post, which said, "Not a positive impact. Intentional misrepresentation is never cute."
Pergolini responded to Gaffney with "well said" and replied "this" with a raising hands emoji next to it to confirm her approval of the comment.
US Paralympians Banned from Closing Ceremonies for Questioning Teammate's Disability
Raleigh Crossley had to address those questioning her disability in Paris. "I went from enjoying a world record to being utterly devastated that the entire world seems to think I was a cheater and that I was somehow faking the hole in my brain and the cyst in my spinal cord," she said.
The USOPC confirmed that sanctions have been imposed on the four swimmers due to their unacceptable behavior. In addition to being barred from the closing ceremonies, they may also face suspensions and loss of stipends.
The USOPC spokesperson stated, "It is important to uphold the standards expected of Team USA athletes, and we remain committed to addressing any actions that undermine our values."
Raleigh Crossley's world record has been overshadowed by the controversy. She has been subjected to online bullying and accusations of faking her disability.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by athletes with disabilities in proving their authenticity. It also raises questions about the USOPC's role in ensuring fair competition and protecting athletes from harassment and discrimination.
The four swimmers involved have not publicly commented on their sanctions. However, Long has previously expressed her commitment to fighting for integrity in the Paralympics. "I want to see Paralympics with integrity. I want to see it better," she said.
